Renowned South African cellist, Peter Martens, will captivate audiences on September 24th, 2023 with his performance of Johann Sebastian Bach’s Six Suites for Solo Cello at the picturesque Montpellier Wine Estate in Tulbagh. This one-of-a-kind event, known as ‘Bach Reloaded 2023,’ will merge the sophistication of classical music with the indulgence of premium wines from Montpellier de Tulbagh.
Peter Martens, a recipient of the SAMA, Fiësta, and Woordtrofee awards, is the only South African cellist to have commercially recorded all of Bach’s Cello Suites. This performance will be his fourth appearance at the esteemed Montpellier Wine Estate, with previous events dating back to 2017.
The day-long musical event will begin at noon with the first suite, accompanied by bubbly. Each subsequent hour until 5 pm will showcase another captivating Bach suite, skillfully paired with a wine at a different location on the estate. The performance will culminate at 6 pm, after which attendees can enjoy a selection of canapés and mingle with old and new friends.
The innovative concept for Bach Reloaded 2023 was inspired by musicologist and Montpellier wines brand ambassador Ritte Eggink’s experiences at two notable events. The first was the annual Pablo Casals Festival, set in the historic Abbey of Saint-Michel-de-Cuxa, surrounded by vineyards at the base of Canigou. The second was the Cello Biennale at the Muziekgebouw aan ‘t IJ concert hall in Amsterdam, Netherlands, where the ‘Bach & Breakfast’ series features different cellists performing Bach Cello Suites every morning.
Lucas van Tonder, proprietor of Montpellier Wine Estate, was inspired to collaborate with Peter Martens to bring the concept of Bach Cello Suites to the iconic Montpellier de Tulbagh chapel. The chapel is one of six locations on the estate that will host performances throughout the day.
Founded in 1714 by two Frenchmen from the city of Montpellier, the Montpellier Wine Estate is known for its exceptional wines that embody the Tulbagh Valley terroir. With its elegant hillside chapel, Cape Dutch homestead, reception facilities, and sweeping views of the surrounding mountains, the wine estate is a serene retreat and an exquisite event venue.
While all venues will be easily accessible, some performances may occur outdoors, weather permitting. Attendees are advised to dress comfortably and consider bringing warm clothing, sunscreen, and a hat.
To attend Bach Reloaded 2023, tickets are priced at R600 per person, inclusive of wine and canapés. Reservations can be made by contacting 082 334 4334. Accommodation, dinner, and breakfast packages are also available by emailing [email protected]
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