Arts
Audiences invited on musical journey of discovery in Bloemfontein─── 08:00 Tue, 25 Aug 2026
The Free State Youth Orchestra (FSYO) brings together senior school learners and university students who share a passion for orchestral performance and artistic excellence.
The FSYO and Sinfonietta will join forces for Reflections – Discovery in the Odeion Auditorium in Bloemfontein on 20 September.
With the theme Every journey begins with wonder, the concert celebrates the excitement of musical discovery through a varied programme that explores beauty, atmosphere, movement, cultural identity and the energy of youth.
The programme includes works by composers such as Jean Sibelius, Eric Whitacre, Brian Balmages, Richard Meyer and others, taking audiences from lyrical and reflective pieces to energetic contemporary works and folk-inspired melodies.

FSYO rehearsals. Photo supplied
The FSYO plays an important role in developing the next generation of South African musicians. As a feeder orchestra linked to the Odeion School of Music, it brings together talented senior school learners and university students, helping them develop not only their musical skills, but also confidence, discipline and a love for orchestral performance.
In this episode of OFM Art Beat, flautist Rosslyn Sorour, violinist Andy Mogowane and clarinettist Emilie Grobbelaar join Yolanda Maartens to talk about the concert, their experiences as young musicians and what audiences can expect from this special afternoon of music.

FSYO manager Victoria Seekoei (left), Yolanda Maartens, Rosslyn Sorour, Emilie Grobbelaar and Andy Mogowane.
Reflections – Discovery takes place on 20 September at 15:00 at the Odeion Auditorium. Admission is free, but tickets must be reserved online via Quicket.
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