A new fine music concert series at Theatre on the Square for those with discerning tastes
This classical music concert series programme is brimming with top talent set to impress a discerning classical music ear.
By Edward Tsumele, CITYLIFE/ARTS Editor
Music lovers around Sandton or those who will be visiting or shopping are spoilt for choice out of a really good performance talent that has been scheduled to perform at Theatre on the Square during the lunch hour-1pm on Fridays. The theatre has introduced a new music series titled The Winter Lunch Hour Music Concert Series, the brain child of resilient theatre entrepreneur Daphne Kuhn.
Going by the line-up that has been confirmed as part of this programme by the theatre, it looks like Sandton lunch hour will not be the same again soon. At least for those who will attend the concerts that have been programmed by the theatre. The performances are sure to warm up music fans this winter.
After all Bono had this to say about music “Music can change the world because it can change people.” Indeed those who will be in Sandton on Fridays at lunch hour are to be changed by this new series, whose programme has been meticulously curated to align with the musical tastes of a discerning music lover, ready to be stimulated by fine musical sound.
“Theatre on the Square is thrilled to share the Classical Music Concert Series for Winter2026, featuring a diverse program highlighting the skills of some of South Africa’s most celebrated musicians,” the theatre says.
The full programme is as follows:
• 29th May – Flute, Finenesse & A Litte Fru Fru.We welcome back flautist Isabel Bradley and John Warneron piano, for another beautiful lunchtime concert. Their programme features delightful Donizetti, a favourite sonata by Kuhlau, often called the Beethoven of the flute.• 5th June – Sax Aternoon Take a joyful trip down memory lane with saxophonist PHIL HOLDER, TULLA ECKHART (vocals), LUKE VAN DER MERWE (guitar) and JONATHAN BIRIN (piano & vocals). This feel-good lunchtime concert blends jazz favourites and beloved popular songs into an uplifting afternoon of music.• 12th June – Crossing Strings & Keys.
And now for something completely different… Join brilliant piano and guitar duo Daniel de Wet and Renier Prins for a refreshing lunchtime concert of original compositions inspired by jazz, folk and classical music. Easy listening with sophistication, warmth and plenty of musical charm.• 19th June – Amanda The Sunset Blonde: A Musical Adventure.
Enjoy a vibrant lunchtime concert as Aamanda Blankfield Koseff sings and plays guitar, joined by EVELYN GREEN on piano. From musical theatre
favourites to folk gems and touches of classical charm, this nostalgic musical journey promises warmth, laughter and something for everyone.• 26th June – Piano & Violin DuoWe’re delighted to welcome back two of South Africa’s most celebrated musicians, MALCOLM NAY and ZANTA HOFMEYR, for what promises to be a truly special lunchtime concert. Performing sonatas by Beethoven and Brahms, this beloved duo brings brilliance and extraordinary musical chemistry to the stage.• 3rd July – Love Celebrated in SongBaritone Dr Jean du Plessis and pianist Sonja van Zyl present a heartfelt lunchtime programme celebrating love through song. From the romance of Schumann, Richard Strauss and Grieg to the timeless melodies of Édith Piaf, John Denver and Elvis Presley.
• 10th July -HelasJoin mezzo-soprano Megan Napier and pianist Annalien Ball for a captivating lunchtime journey through the world of French song and opera. From the playful charm of Erik Satie to the passion of Georges Bizet, this elegant programme is filled with romance, wit and unforgettable melodies.• 17th July – Fabulous Flutes. The Emerging Artist Initiative, in partnership with the South African Flute Festival, showcases three of South Africa’s most exciting young flautists – Jesse Jardin, Tahlitha Pienaar, and Gabriella Claasen. Joined by acclaimed pianist Eugene Joubert and flautist Dr Cobus du Toit, this vibrant lunchtime concert features sparkling works by Gary Schocker and Catherine McMichael.• 24th July – Voices of MemoryMezzo-soprano Aukse Trinkunas , cellist Gerrit Korsten and pianist PAUL FERREIRA come together for a moving lunchtime concert celebrating beauty, emotion, and memory through music. Featuring works by Montsalvatge, Hofmeyr, Brahms, and Fauré.• 31st July – Arias of the HeartThe sensational Sasa Yende brings her soaring voice and captivating stage presence to a beautiful lunchtime concert of beloved arias and opera favourites. Featuring works by Bellini, Gounod, Menotti, Floyd, Buthelezi, and Dvořák, this programme promises passion, drama, and unforgettable musical moments. • 7th August – The Welsh Male ChoirWe warmly welcome back The Welsh Male Choir, conducted by Neil Ben, for another lunchtime performance. Expect rich harmonies and beloved choral favourites.
• 14th August – Nhlanhla Dube & The Music Moves BandExperience the vibrant sounds of Nhlanhla Dube & The Music Moves Band in a dynamic lunchtime concert blending jazz, Afro-fusion and blues. Bursting with local flavour and infectious energy straight from Tembisa, this promises to be an exciting musical experience.• 21st August Violin and Viola DuoBrilliant violinist Jonathan Mayer Mayer joins acclaimed violist Lyn Rudolph for an intimate and expressive lunchtime concert. • 28th August – Piano Recital with Laura Pauna.Join the remarkable Laura Pauna for an exciting lunchtime piano recital featuring Beethoven’s dazzling 32 Variations and Schumann’s expressive Sonata No. 2.
The concerts will take place on Fridays afternoon at 13:00.
Tickets are available an hour before at the theatre box
office. Seats are unreserved so we encourage you to
arrive early.
Tickets: Unreserved tickets will be available at the box office from 12pm.
Time of Concert: 1pm every Friday
Ticket price: R100 or R60 for members.