The ensemble was joined by South African cellist, singer and composer Abel Selaocoe, who presented his work Four Spirits in the first half of each concert. Together with percussionist Bernhard Schimpelsberger, an intense interplay between classical and African musical traditions emerged. A highlight was the final movement Simunye (“We are One”), in which Selaocoe invited audiences in every city to sing along, creating an overwhelming sense of community. After the interval, the Aurora Orchestra performed Beethoven’s Seventh Symphony – from memory, standing, and with electrifying energy. The encore, played throughout the auditorium in the midst of the audience, made the experience truly unique and was rewarded with standing ovations. With sustainable travel planning and innovative performance practice, the orchestra set a powerful tone at the very start of its 20th anniversary year.

Aurora Orchestra performs Beethoven's 7th Symphony at Elbphilharmonie Hamburg

Abel Selaocoe performs Tsohle Tsohle at Elbphilharmonie Hamburg