Second Serenade in the Forest packed
KNYSNA - This Sunday, 24 March, saw no fewer than 400 supporters of the prestigious SANParks Honorary Rangers Serenade in the Forest, near the magical Diepwalle King Edward 7 Big Tree, celebrate the joy of classical music.
Seating was under cover so nobody got wet. The event, which was a hit with those who attended, was organised by Honorary Rangers chairperson Sabine Schukai together with many other Honorary Rangers.
"To hear the music and singing in contrast to the usual bird calls and insect hum was truly outstanding," said Schukai.
"After a very hot, humid day the heavens decided to bless us with some of nature's air conditioning and we had to rush around keeping picnic packages and equipment dry. Fortunately, the taxis had already left Loerie Park in Knysna and all were kept dry. A few showers persisted once everyone was seated and all enjoyed the picnic. Nature then cooperated and the rain stopped."
Schukai said they were entertained by Pierre van der Westhuizen, the tenor, and Jaco Kriek, the saxophonist, who both performed in last year's concert, and "this year we excelled with renowned artists like Elina Koycheva on the violin and Louise Howlett an accomplished soprano. Virtually all songs were accompanied by the piano of Albert Combrink and some with the violin as well. This rendered a well-rounded evening of serenade and with the rain stopped, the mood and atmosphere of the venue became surreal."
The artists provided wonderful commentary and stories relating to each rendition and this brought a closer understanding to what was being sung.
Thirty of the SANParks Honorary Rangers were treated to the event thanks to an anonymous sponsor. "This truly shows the commitment the people of Knysna have towards promoting conservation," said Schukai. The evening ended with a number of patrons winning raffle prizes of wine packs which were again sponsored by Sowebrand. At the end of the festivities all went downtown as the five artists finally got together to play the departing song
Downtown by Hatch.
Then all the attendees walked the short distance back to the taxis who were most diligent in fetching and returning everyone to the parking in Loerie Park.
"We all need such culture in our lives and
an event like this will surely now become an annual occasion which not only promotes what the Honorary Rangers achieve but in addition benefits our community. The
SANParks Honorary Rangers Knysna look forward to seeing you next year and thank all those who supported us at this year’s Serenade in the Forest," said Schukai.