Music can be healing to the psyche and is being used for its therapeutic value by people of all ages, with positive results. But Thursday’s gathering of the Music Club was just for fun and sheer enjoyment. Finding out what makes the music of Andrew Lloyd-Webber so phenomenal, turned out to be more than fascinating.
Ronell, who has doctorates in music and education, is obviously well qualified to give an insight in the technical aspects of Lloyd-Webber’s most famous musicals - Starlight Express, Cats, Phantom and many more.
She also focused on this gifted man’s life. Born to parents who were already accomplished in the field of music and entertainment, Sir Lloyd-Weber had a head-start in that his parents recognised his genius. He began violin lessons at the age of three and had written his first song by the age of nine.
His brother, Julian Webber plays the cello and is a well-known fine recording and performing artist in his own right. At 14 Andrew won a scholarship to Westminster School and his first breakthrough came with the musical Jesus Christ Superstar. He has had a colourful love life - he is currently married to his third wife - and in his prolific career as composer, he has also produced musicals such as AR Rahman’s Bombay Dreams. Today he is one of the richest men in the UK and he owns many theatres in London. Love never dies (2009) is his latest musical.
What made him a superstar? Many factors contributed but his outstanding ability to write enduring melodies and his unique orchestration entice the listener to listen to his music over and over! One can just refer to Memories from Cats and a multitude of other beautiful songs come to mind. The touching Don’t cry for me Argentina from Evita was a fitting closure to an enriching musical morning.
The Van Aswegens are well known for having been patrons of the arts for many years, having hosted many soirées and fundraising concerts at the Masada Little Theatre, at their previous home.
Article and photos: Pauline Lourens
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Host Neels van Aswegenwith Frieda Henning, Riana van der Gryp and Daleen Engelbrecht.
