The Endler Concert Series is delighted to present South African award-winning and internationally acclaimed baritone William Berger, accompanied by Portuguese-born pianist José Dias, in a song recital titled “From Darkness into Light”. The musical selection reflects on the global pandemic experience thus far with themes of loss, peace and quiet, fond remembrance, contemplation, honouring love and joy, and ultimately hope. This kaleidoscopic programme spans from composers like Schubert and Schumann to Puccini, Barber and Ravel, also including SA’s own Arnold van Wyk.

William Berger was a member of the Drakensberg Boys’ Choir, and the inaugural recipient of the Deon van der Walt UNISA/SAMRO bursary at age 17, before commencing his studies at the Royal Academy of Music in London. Since winning the Lucerne Festival Prize at the Ernst Haefliger Competition in Switzerland, William has distinguished himself as a performing artist on the international stage and made both his Royal Opera House London and Kennedy Center (Washington D.C.) debuts in 2019.

José Dias is a familiar name to local audiences. He is a regular presence in all major concert halls and Arts Festivals in South Africa and is in high demand as pianist and musical director, chamber musician, vocal accompanist and vocal coach. Alongside his busy performance schedule, José is also a part-time lecturer at Stellenbosch University’s Music Department, working within the voice and choral conducting divisions.

Please keep in mind that for all live events current restrictions allow for 50% capacity in the Endler Hall and the current regulations stipulate that all audience members must be vaccinated or in possession of a negative test not older than 48 hours.

The concert on Friday 20 May starts at 7pm in the Endler Hall, Stellenbosch. Tickets for R140 (regular) and R100 (pensioners, students, and scholars) are available now through Computicket and at the door one hour before the concert. For more information contact Fiona Grayer at concerts@sun.ac.za or 021 808 2358.