A turning point in orchestral norms. An evening of romantic musical masterpieces, accompanied by the sultry sounds of the saxophone. Works include that of visionary tango composer, Astor Piazzolla, a musical game changer of the 20th Century, who elevated the musical form of tango from the red-light districts of Buenos Aires, Argentina, to be performed on some of the world’s most prestigious concert stages. The use of saxophone in classical music is still a relatively new concept, and the instrument continues to be an uncommon fixture in the symphony – creating a unique and exciting experience for the audience.

GUEST ARTIST BIO

Karèn Devroop - Saxophone

Karèn Devroop - Saxophone

Karén Devroop is South Africa’s leading saxophonist, having performed with most of South Africa’s leading jazz and classical artists. He has performed all over the wolrd as a soloist and lead alto saxophonist, and has several live and studio recordings to his credit. He is the founder and current director of the Unisa Big Band and Artistic Director of the Unisa Jazz Festival.

Karén has appeared as a side stage act for Cedar Walton, Earth Wind and Fire, Jill Scott, Chicago, and Queen Latifah. He recently completed the Battle of the Saxes tour, which included jazz saxophone, classical saxophone, a jazz rhythm section, and a string quartet; and the New York Round Midnight (SA) tour – a jazz theatre production showcasing a nine-piece jazz ensemble, video, narration and stage set.

In December 2020, Karén released his new album Ancestral Home, which has received airplay in over 40 countries, with two tracks peaking at #1 and #3 on the jazz charts in the USA. He has also performed as a woodwind specialist for the Broadway production, Bye Bye Birdie in the USA. Karén is currently on the faculty of the University of South Africa, in Pretoria, South Africa.