Arts
Fourth international clarinet extravaganza comes to Free State─── 09:00 Tue, 18 Nov 2025
Professor Danré Strydom from the Odeion School of Music at the University of the Free State is inviting clarinetists from across the country to participate in the International Clarinet Extravaganza.
The event will take place from 4 to 7 February 2026 in Bloemfontein. Applications close on 1 January. Professor Strydom joined Yolanda Maartens on the OFM Art Beat to share the application details.
The International Clarinet Extravaganza (ICE), previously hosted in 2016, 2020, and 2024, has grown significantly and is now one of the most important annual music initiatives in the Free State. It draws participation from teachers, learners, and students of all levels from across South Africa.
The event has both national and international impact. Acclaimed guest artists offer world-class performances and masterclasses, along with valuable networking opportunities for local learners.
The festival aims to expose South African clarinetists to the latest international developments in clarinet performance, pedagogy, and repertoire, while promoting inclusivity in music education.
Participants of all ages and levels, from beginner to professional, are welcome.
A diverse programme includes:
- Individual and group masterclasses with international and national soloists;
- Workshops for clarinet teachers;
- Performances by international and national soloists;
- Concerts featuring participants, ensembles, and lecturers;
- Informative sessions on reeds, mouthpieces, instruments, and clarinet equipment;
- Special sessions for young beginner clarinet players;
- A festival clarinet choir featuring all participants and faculty;
- A clarinet choir performing with the Free State Symphony Orchestra; and
- Five professional accompanists are available for the week’s events.
2026 international guests:
- Eddy Vanoosthuyse – Clarinet (Belgium) (Buffet Crampon Artist)
- Séverine Sierens – E-flat clarinet (Belgium) (Buffet Crampon Artist)
- Vincenzo Casale – Early clarinet (Italy)
- Bence Szepesi – Clarinet (Hungary) (D’Addario, BG, BDZ Artist)
- Brooks Thon – Clarinet (Japan) (Backun Artist)
2026 national guests:
- Danré Strydom (Free State) (Buffet Crampon Artist)
- Heidri Faber (Eastern Cape) (Uebel Artist)
- Chrisna Smith (Gauteng)
- Morné van Heerden (Gauteng)
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