Read here the amazing story of Wedgewood Nougat and Christopher’s beginnings as Music Revival - click here

In June …

TOGETHER AGAIN
JAMES GRACE (guitar) and Christopher DUGAN (piano)

Please note Coffeeberry concerts at both Avenues and Cascades have been cancelled due to unforeseen circumstances. Apologies for the disappointment.

Local  audiences should not miss an opportunity to enjoy a beautiful concert of music featuring world-class soloists, pianist Christopher Duigan and guitarist James Grace, across KZN! 

Duigan, one of South Africa’s  leading concert pianists, can be heard in piano solos from his recent programmes of music by Chopin and Liszt.  Together with guitarist James Grace, the Duigan & Grace Duo, an usual combination of piano and guitar, has won a popular following at major festivals and on stages across South Africa.  Cape Town-based James Grace is a SAMA nominated artist with a string of successful recordings under his belt. Their programme together includes many of their own duo arrangements and improvisations on classic melodies, jazz standards, Latin milongas and Spanish classics. Their session will include ‘Fields of Gold’, ‘Tico Tico’ and favourite Spanish guitar solos.   Duigan’s own composition ‘Indigo’ a favourite at any Duigan and Grace concert, will complete the programme.

IN HILTON 
The recent concert at Coffeeberry, Avenues in Hilton confirmed once again what a fantastic venue and experience this is! I hope to be featuring guest artist James Grace (guitar) in my next outing there in the first week of July. Once again I move my concert grand piano, there will be a raised stage, plus a camera view of the keyboard and artists on big screens. The acoustics are impressive, creating an immersive and memorable concert experience! A full menu is available for those who wish to enjoy a delicious meal. Details to be announced shortly.

JUNE EDITION! Open Gardens
Saturday 21 & Sunday 22 June
Casa Mexicana - 35 Montgomery Drive, Athlone PIETERMARITZBURG 
Open 9:00 am to 5:00 pm
Visit the new web page for before pics of the garden and its development. 

Casa Mexicana - 35 Montgomery Drive, Athlone PIETERMARITZBURG

• Open 9 am to 5 pm

• Secure Parking

• Tea/Coffee and other refreshments

• Art exhibition by established artists

• Music in the Garden with Christopher Duigan (piano) at 10 am, 12 noon, 2 pm and 4 pm (15 mins)

• Talk: The Story of Casa Mexicana ~ House and Garden 12:15 pm (15 mins)

• Lunch - light lunch of soup will be available. Booking for lunch is preferred as places are limited. Email chris@musicrevival.co.za or WhatsApp message 083 417 4473 in advance

• Entrance : R50
  
  
  

  
  

• Following the resounding success of the first of Blackwood's Midlands Open Gardens of 2025, and by popular request, we open the garden, and home, at Casa Mexicana once again in June and July (Saturday 26 and Sunday 27 July).

Entrance fee is R50, which includes patrolled street parking for your convenience, as well as tea, superb coffee, and a variety of other refreshments including Wedgwood Angel biscuits. There will be an engaging art exhibition to view with work from local artists in the studio, as well as various artworks to purchase. Throughout the day, there will be delightful music in the garden performed by Christopher Duigan at the piano, with sessions scheduled at 10:00 am,12 noon, 2:00 pm, and 4:00 pm, each lasting approximately 15 minutes.

Additionally there will be a short presentation from Christopher detailing the story of the creation of the Casa Mexicana garden and its development over 30 years. 

Adding to the experience guests can now also enjoy a light lunch of soup and dessert available from 12h30. Booking for lunch is preferred as places and facilities are limited. Email chris@musicrevival.co.za or WhatsApp message 0834177473 in advance to reserve a place.

Expect seasonal changes as the plectranthus and other shrubs finish flowering, aloes take on full bloom, and autumn hues turn to winter in this magnificent indigenous garden. There will be more flowering orchids too. 
Join us at Casa Mexicana on Sat 21 & Sun 22 June for a unique garden experience. Explore the stunning indigenous garden designed by Barry Lovegrove, featuring terraced slopes, bold architecture, and beautifully layered garden rooms. Enjoy live piano performances by Christopher Duigan, an art exhibition, and delicious treats included with your R50 entrance fee.
Don't miss this perfect blend of nature, art, and music!

In Johannesburg

Songs You Love: At Home on Stage invites a small audience to join Executive Dean of the Faculty of Art, Design & Architecture and celebrated baritone Prof Federico Freschi, acclaimed pianist Christopher Duigan, as well as promising young saxophonist Christopher Gous—making a guest appearance—on stage for an intimate and relaxed classical recital.

As a precursor to the popular annual Dean’s Concert fundraiser taking place in November, this special performance presents a selection of popular melodies and piano solos from the world stages of opera, classical repertoire, and musical theatre.

“As we celebrate twenty years of the University of Johannesburg's journey, I'm struck by how deeply the institution has woven itself into the cultural fabric of our city and nation. What began as an ambitious vision has grown into a vibrant hub where creativity and academic excellence intersect in remarkable ways. Songs You Love: At Home on Stage embodies this spirit, creating an intimate space for connection through music that transcends boundaries,” says Professor Federico Freschi. 

Audiences can expect well-loved favourites, sung by the Dean himself, from Carmen, The Marriage of Figaro, and My Fair Lady, alongside Neapolitan gems like ’O Sole Mio, and celebrated hits from Cole Porter, Josh Groban, and more. This is an uplifting and engaging programme designed to leave your heart humming and your spirits high.

The recital transforms the performance space into a lounge-style setting with only 80 tickets available. Audience members will be ushered through the stage door and welcomed backstage to enjoy homemade soup and a glass of port before being seated for the performance, in the presence of the majestic UJ Steinway grand piano.

In the same spirit as the annual Dean’s Concert, Songs You Love: At Home on Stage reflects the University of Johannesburg’s and the Dean’s enduring commitment to maintaining the highest standards of quality and expression, giving voice to countless artists and creating unforgettable moments of shared humanity.

Friday 6 June 
19:00 – 20:00 
Backstage on the Keorapetse William Kgositsile Theatre, UJ Arts Centre, Auckland Park
Limited tickets available — only 80 seats!
Click here to purchase your tickets- > https://tinyurl.com/SongsYouLoveUJ

IN MAY …
LIVES OF THE PIANO!

A thrilling and diverse selection of mostly classical piano music is performed by Christopher Duigan. The engaging and thoughtfully curated program highlights the remarkable and versatile possibilities of the piano, showcasing everything from light and delicate melodies to deep and passionate expressions. It features iconic pieces, such as Mendelssohn’s “Rondo cappricioso'“ and Liszt's "Un Sospiro," as well as Chopin's Scherzo No. 2, intertwined with sections of contemporary meditation and evocative film music. This combination offers a rich and varied listening experience that is sure to captivate and resonate with everyone in attendance.Don't miss this concert! 

Monday 26 May 3;00 pm AMBERFIELD
Thursday 29 May  3:30 pm WOODGROVE 
Thursday 29 May at 7:00 pm   AMBER VALLEY 
Tuesday 3 June 7:00 pm  ST AGNES CHURCH, Kloof
Sunday 1 June  3:00 pm  ALL SOULS, Salt Rock

Thursday 26 May  3:30 pm
WOODGROVE - Community Centre
Tickets : R100  Booking via WhatsApp 083 417 4473 or booking@musicrevival.co.za
This concert is open to all!

Thursday 26 May 7:00 pm  
AMBER VALLEY - Amber Auditorium 
Tickets: R100 Booking: Amber office. (Open to Amber Valley residents and their guests). 

Sunday 1 June  Salt Rock 3:00 pm 
ALL SOULS ANGLICAN CHURCH
Sheffield Beach Rd, Umhlali / Salt Rock
Tickets: R150 include tea/coffee and other refreshments at interval.
Booking preferred via WhatsApp 083 417 4473 or booking@musicrevival.co.za

Tuesday 3 June 7:00 pm 
ST AGNES CHURCH, Kloof
Tickets: R130 include tea/coffee and other refreshments at interval.
Booking preferred via WhatsApp 083 417 4473 or booking@musicrevival.co.za

IN JOHANNESBURG!
Songs You Love: At Home on Stage 
with Federico Freschi (baritone) and Christopher Duigan (piano)

The University of Johannesburg’s Faculty of Art, Design & Architecture (FADA) and UJ Arts & Culture will present a unique musical experience on 6 June. The concert offers audiences a rare opportunity to experience two master performers in a setting as warm and personal as the songs themselves.

CONCERTS AT AMBERFIELD IN HOWICK _ OPEN TO ALL
After the recent success of the first concert this week at Amberfield, a second delightful one-hour long afternoon concert is scheduled to take place next month! Many community members have expressed interest in attending additional concerts in the wider Ambers area, in Howick and the KZN Midlands. In response to this demand, and requests for daytime concerts, I am excited to be trialing a monthly concert series at Amberfield, which will be open to everyone, regardless of their residency, for the next three months. The next outing on Monday, 30 June.

PREVIOUSLY ——

I will be performing for the Mzansi Chamber Music Collective in the East Rand this Sunday 4 May. This will be my very first concert outside of KwaZulu-Natal in several years, and I am eagerly looking forward to this exciting opportunity. It promises to be a memorable performance for both myself and the audience. Be sure to click here to book your tickets and join me for this special event.

The first Blackwood's Midlands Open Garden of the 2025 season is just weeks away!

Save the dates for a truly immersive garden experience that awaits at Casa Mexicana on Sat 17 & Sun 18 May. This remarkable home of well-known pianist, Christopher Duigan spans nearly three decades of design and devotion. The indigenous garden is a celebrated regional landmark—and for good reason. Crafted by the late Barry Lovegrove, the garden transforms a steep slope into a terraced masterpiece, where indigenous planting and bold architectural features complement each other at every turn.

Thoughtfully layered "garden rooms" and quiet seating areas invite visitors to slow down and soak up the rich details—from intricate stone paving and hand-painted tiles, to a gurgling water feature and a secret forest walk. The indigenous plant palette includes aloes, plectranthus, mature trees and an exquisite collection of potted succulents, offering colour, texture and a strong sense of place. It's a garden that stirs the senses and uplifts the spirit.

The R50 entrance fee includes tea, coffee and delicious treats including Wedgewood Nougat and Angel biscuits - as well as patrolled street parking. An exhibition of museum-quality art by local artists (with works available for purchase) adds a creative touch, and every two hours (10am, 12pm, 2pm, and 4pm), guests will be treated to 15-minute live piano performances in the garden by Christopher Duigan himself.

Don’t miss this harmonious blend of nature, art and music—a garden experience like no other.

Dates: Saturday 17 & Sunday 18 May
Times: 9am - 5pm
Entrance Fee: R50p/p
Address: Casa Mexicana, 35 Montgomery Drive, Athlone, Pietermaritzburg, 3201

Directions: From N3 S - take Peter Brown Dr, turn right at the stop sign. At the circle turn left into Montgomery Drive. From N3 N - take Artmitage Rd/ Sanctuary Rd exit. Keep left on Armitage Rd. At the next circle turn right into Town Bush Rd and left at the next intersection after Greys Hospital (on your left) into Montgomery Dr.

#OpenGarden #BlackwoodsOpenMidlandsGardens #MusicInTheGarden

#SouthAfricanGardens

Christopher Duigan -pianist @opengardensza Open Gardens and Events of South Africa

PREVIOUSLY …

April 2025 The Intimate Art
'The Intimate Art' is the captivating title of a classical piano recital that showcases a beautiful selection of timeless masterpieces skillfully performed by Christopher Duigan (piano). This performance is part of his ongoing monthly outings to various venues throughout the KZN region. The thoughtfully curated programme, focusing on poetic and intimate expression, includes notable works such as Schubert's exquisite selection from Impromptus Op. 142, Liszt's evocative Sonetto 47 del Petrarca, and Chopin's lush Barcarolle Op. 60. Additionally, the recital features the rarely performed delights of Mozart's Rondo K. 511 and Scriabin's poignant Nocturne for Left-hand Op. 9, creating a rich and varied listening experience for all attendees.

Thursday 24 April  3:30 pm
WOODGROVE - Community Centre
Tickets : R100  Booking via WhatsApp 083 417 4473 or booking@musicrevival.co.za
This concert is open to all!

Thursday 24 April at 7:00 pm  
AMBER VALLEY - Amber Auditorium 
Tickets: R100 Booking: Amber office. (Open to Amber Valley residents and their guests). 

Sunday 27 April  Salt Rock 3:00 pm 
ALL SOULS ANGLICAN CHURCH
Sheffield Beach Rd, Umhlali / Salt Rock
Tickets: R150 include tea/coffee and other refreshments at interval.
Booking preferred via WhatsApp 083 417 4473 or booking@musicrevival.co.za

Tuesday 6 May 7:00 pm 
ST AGNES CHURCH, Kloof
Tickets: R130 include tea/coffee and other refreshments at interval.
Booking preferred via WhatsApp 083 417 4473 or booking@musicrevival.co.za

In March…
With a Song and a Prayer

An uplifting and comforting selection of popular classical melodies, and lesser-known gems, collated with unique links and juxtapositions. Follow the programme here

Thursday 27 March  3:30 pm
WOODGROVE - Community Centre
Tickets : R100  Booking via WhatsApp 083 417 4473 or booking@musicrevival.co.za
This concert is open to all!

Thursday 27 March at 7:00 pm  
AMBER VALLEY - Amber Auditorium 
Tickets: R100 Booking - Amber office open to Amber Valley. 
Please note the new ticket price. 
This concert with on-screen projection of the hands and keyboard.

Friday 28 March 7:00 pm
CASA MEXICANA  35 Montgomery Drive, Pietermaritzburg

• Tickets: R150 concert only.  Wine available by donation - R20 per glass or bring your own.

• Venue opens at 6:30 pm. Performance time approx 70- mins. Secure patrolled parking. 

• BOOKING  IS ESSENTIAL : Book via WhatsApp 083 417 4473 or booking@musicrevival.co.za. Please include your contact numbers in all email bookings.

• Re-imagining our recital format, we return to an immersive experience for evening concerts, without any additional meal options. Guests will be seated in a informal arrangement of sofas and comfortable chairs in the sumptuously appointed studio. The room is generously adorned with magnificent artworks from local artists. The garden is lit at night and is open for your enjoyment - weather permitting.

Tuesday 1 April 7:00 pm 
ST AGNES CHURCH, Kloof
Tickets: R130 include tea/coffee and other refreshments at interval.
Booking preferred via WhatsApp 083 417 4473 or booking@musicrevival.co.za

Sunday 6 April  Salt Rock 3:00 pm 
ALL SOULS ANGLICAN CHURCH
Sheffield Beach Rd, Umhlali / Salt Rock
Tickets: R150 include tea/coffee and other refreshments at interval.
Booking preferred via WhatsApp 083 417 4473 or booking@musicrevival.co.za

February / MARCH - Magnificent Classics

The ‘Magnificent Classics’ programme, a selection of favourires from Duigan’s repertoire, includes George Frederic Handel’s Chaconne in G HWV 435 and Ludwig van Beethoven’s exhilarating ‘Waldstein’ Sonata op 53 – one of his most iconic and revered compositions. Duigan will also play Claude Debussy’s Reflets dans l’eau (Reflections in the water) and Liszt’s Harmonies du soir from his Transcendental Etudes, a powerful and emotionally resplendent composition. The programme ends with the ‘Heroic’ Polonaise in A-flat Op 53 by Frederic Chopin; one of the composer’s boldest compositions and one which gives voice to a nation’s cry for freedom following the Russian invasion of Poland of 1831.

Previously …
This concert is open to all!
Thursday 27 February  3:30 pm
WOODGROVE - Community Centre
Tickets : R100 
Booking via WhatsApp 083 417 4473 or booking@musicrevival.co.za

Thursday 27 February at 7:00 pm  
AMBER VALLEY - Amber Auditorium 
Tickets: R100 Booking - Amber office open to Amber Valley.
Please note new ticket price.

Tuesday 4 March 7:00 pm 
ST AGNES CHURCH, Kloof
Tickets: R130 include tea/coffee and other refreshments at interval.
Booking preferred via WhatsApp 083 417 4473 or booking@musicrevival.co.za

Sunday 16 March  Salt Rock 3:00 pm
ALL SOULS ANGLICAN CHURCH
Sheffield Beach Rd, Umhlali / Salt Rock
Tickets: R150 include tea/coffee and other refreshments at interval.
Booking preferred via WhatsApp 083 417 4473 or booking@musicrevival.co.za

POPULAR CLASSICS LIGHT - Christopher Duigan (piano) A NEW FORMAT!
EXTRA PERFORMANCE! of this enthusiastically-received programme.
Friday 7 March 7:00 pm
CASA MEXICANA  35 Montgomery Drive, Pietermaritzburg

• Tickets: R150 concert only.  Wine available by donation - R20 per glass or bring your own.

• Venue opens at 6:30 pm. Performance time approx 70- mins. Secure patrolled parking. 

• BOOKING  IS ESSENTIAL : Book via WhatsApp 083 417 4473 or booking@musicrevival.co.za. Please include your contact numbers in all email bookings.

Re-imagining our recital format, we return to an immersive experience for evening concerts, without any additional meal options. Guests will be seated in a informal arrangement of sofas and comfortable chairs in the sumptuously appointed studio, or sometiems known as the salon. The room is generously adorned with magnificent artworks from local artists. Others rooms of the house are also open to view with artworks (some available for purchase) and opportunity enjoy a chat in a cosy corner. The garden is lit at night and is open for your enjoyment - weather permitting.

POPULAR CLASSICS LIGHT

Start the new year with Christopher Duigan at the piano in a popular selection of light piano classics. This calming and charming selection includes Mozart’s Sonata ‘facile’ K. 545, Dvorak’s Humoresque, Rubenstein ‘Melody in F’, ‘The Maiden’s Prayer’, ‘Parade of the Tin Soldiers’ and many more popular classical melodies!

This concert is open to all!
Thursday 30 JANUARY  3:30 pm
WOODGROVE - Community Centre
Tickets : R100 
Booking via WhatsApp 083 417 4473 or booking@musicrevival.co.za

Thursday 30 JANUARY at 7:00 pm  
AMBER VALLEY - Amber Auditorium 
Tickets: R80 Booking - Amber office open to Amber Valley.

We have a new piano!
Tuesday 4 FEBRUARY 7:00 pm 
ST AGNES CHURCH, Kloof
Tickets: R130 include tea/coffee and other refreshments at interval.
Booking preferred via WhatsApp 083 417 4473 or booking@musicrevival.co.za

Sunday 9 FEBRUARY  Salt Rock 3:00 pm
ALL SOULS ANGLICAN CHURCH
Sheffield Beach Rd, Umhlali / Salt Rock
Tickets: R150 include tea/coffee and other refreshments at interval.
Booking preferred via WhatsApp 083 417 4473 or booking@musicrevival.co.za

PLAY PIANO PLAY ! An exciting programme for a New Year’s Eve early evening concert at Casa Mexicana.

NEW YEARS’ EVE CONCERT - PLAY PIANO PLAY
Tuesday 31 DECEMBER 7:00 pm 
CASA MEXICANA 
35 Montgomery Drive, Pietermaritzburg

For the annual new Year’s Eve concert I revive my ‘Play Piano Play!’ programme from earlier in the year. An exciting and highly entertaining performance selection including ragtime, tango, jazz, popular music, and film music along with contemporary meditations along a Neo-Classical line! Includes tango by Plaza and Piazzolla, Gershwin’s ‘Someone to Watch Over me’, ‘Take Five’. the South African anthem ‘Manenberg’, ‘Dizzy Fingers’, my own compositions and music by Einaudi

Tickets: R150 concert only.  Bring your own drinks - glasses provided.
Venue opens at 6:30 pm Secure parking. 
BOOKING  IS ESSENTIAL : Book via WhatsApp 083 417 4473 or booking@musicrevival.co.za. Please include your contact numbers in all email bookings.

DECEMBER 2024

THE BEST OF CHOPIN

A classical programme, a magnificent selection of music from the ‘poet of the piano’ the FrancoPolish  composer Frédéric François Chopin. This will include a focus on the elegant, charming, and melodic music from his early years. 

Regards,

Christopher Duigan

The Best of CHOPIN

Sunday 15 DECEMBER All Souls, Salt Rock
ALL SOULS ANGLICAN CHURCH
Sheffield Beach Rd, Umhlali / Salt Rock
Tickets: R150 include tea/coffee and other refreshments at interval.
Booking preferred via WhatsApp 083 417 4473 or booking@musicrevival.co.za

Previously …

This concert is open to all!
Thursday 28 NOVEMBER  3:30 pm
WOODGROVE - Community Centre
Tickets : R100 
Booking via WhatsApp 083 417 4473 or booking@musicrevival.co.za

We have a new piano!
Tuesday 3 DECEMBER 7:00 pm 
ST AGNES CHURCH, Kloof
Tickets: R130 include tea/coffee and other refreshments at interval.
Booking preferred via WhatsApp 083 417 4473 or booking@musicrevival.co.za

Wed 4 at 3:00 pm & Thur 5 DECEMBER at 7:00 pm  
AMBER VALLEY - Amber Auditorium 
Tickets: R80 Booking - Amber office open to Amber Valley.
Wednesday (only) includes live keyboard camera projection on screen.

Saturday 14 DECEMBER 7:00 pm 
CASA MEXICANA 
35 Montgomery Drive, Pietermaritzburg
Tickets: R300 includes dinner  or R150 concert only. 
Venue opens 30 mins before. Secure parking. 
BOOKING  IS ESSENTIAL : Book via WhatsApp 083 417 4473 or booking@musicrevival.co.za. Please include your contact numbers in all email bookings.

This month …

Don’t miss this months exciting programme ‘Play, Piano Play’! 
Includes Liszt -Hungarian Rhapsody No 2, tango by Piazzolla, Gershwin’s ‘Someone to Watch Over me’, ‘Take Five, the South African anthem ‘Mannenberg’, ‘Dizzy Fingers’, my own compositions and music by Einaudi. 

We are acquiring a new piano, thanks to a very generous donor, for our Kloof venue at St Agnes! This heralds a new focus for our concerts there.

Also, we are trying an additional day time slot, following several requests, for Amber Valley. This is open to Amber Valley residents and their guests.

The Woodgrove concert on a Thursday afternoon is open to all in Pietermaritzburg!

And please join us for a fantastic ‘Year End Event’ Hilton College!

Plus look out for info on a Johannesburg Concert I am involved in - A Grand Night for Singing, Friday 2 November at University of Johannesburg.

PLAY PIANO PLAY! in NOVEMBER

Music from around the world and from varied genres that makes the piano sing, dance and jump. An exciting and highly entertaining performance selection from various repertoires including ragtime, tango, jazz, popular music, and film music along with contemporary meditations along a Neo-Classical line! Includes Liszt -Hungarian Rhapsody No 2, tango by Plaza and Piazzolla, Gershwin’s ‘Someone to Watch Over me’, ‘Take Five’. the South African anthem ‘Manenberg’, ‘Dizzy Fingers’, my own compositions and music by Einaudi. 

Thursday 31 OCTOBER  3:30 pm
WOODGROVE - Community Centre
Tickets : R100 This concert at Woodgrove is open to all
Booking via WhatsApp 083 417 4473 or booking@musicrevival.co.za

Thursday 7 NOVEMBER 7:00 pm  AND
Friday 8 NOVEMBER 3:00 pm
AMBER VALLEY - Amber Auditorium 
Tickets: R80 Booking - Amber office open to Amber Valley residents and their guests only. 

We have a new piano!
Tuesday 12 NOVEMBER 7:00 pm 
ST AGNES CHURCH, Kloof
Tickets: R130 include tea/coffee and other refreshments at interval.
Booking preferred via WhatsApp 083 417 4473 or booking@musicrevival.co.za

Sunday 17 NOVEMBER 3:00 pm 
Chamberlain Music Centre, Hilton College
Tickets R150 includes refreshments 
BOOKING via Quicket

Friday 22 NOVEMBER 7:00 pm 
CASA MEXICANA 
35 Montgomery Drive, Pietermaritzburg
Tickets: R300 includes dinner  or R150 concert only. 
Venue opens 30 mins before. Secure parking. 
BOOKING  IS ESSENTIAL : Book via WhatsApp 083 417 4473 or booking@musicrevival.co.za. Please include your contact numbers in all email bookings.

Sunday 24 NOVEMBER 3:00 pm 
ALL SOULS ANGLICAN CHURCH
Sheffield Beach Rd, Umhlali / Salt Rock
Tickets: R150 include tea/coffee and other refreshments at interval.
Booking preferred via WhatsApp 083 417 4473 or booking@musicrevival.co.za

OPEN GARDENS at CASA MEXICANA

Saturday 9 – Sunday 10 November

Christopher Duigan - 35 Montgomery Drive, Athlone
Tea and coffee available plus an exhibition of art.

A labour of love spanning 28 years, where Barry Lovegrove’s inspired vision intertwines extensive hardscaping with a diverse array of indigenous flora, creating a captivating Afro-Mexican oasis boasting architectural marvels, tranquil water features, hand-painted tiles, a hidden forest path and a rich tapestry of aloes, plectranthus, mature trees and potted succulents, inviting visitors to experience a harmonious blend of culture and nature.

Directions: From Athlone Circle, follow Montgomery Drive downhill to No. 35.

For more click here.

 IN OCTOBER …

My monthly recital programme IN CONCERT, the background in-depth discussion of the music BEHIND THE MUSIC, and PIANO HOUR of varied and easy going music are on offer every month! To become a member  of the LIVESTREAM SERIES you will be required to pay minimum monthly amount of R200 to access the online content. This will come into effect 1 October 2024.

Payment can be made via EFT (ie bank deposit) or via PayFast where recurring monthly payments are possible. (Please email me if wish to use PayPal or other international platforms.)  You will be to have a YouTube account (this is free to register) and the email address which you use to register at YouTube must be clearly linked to your name or payment. If it is not the same address you will not be able to access the content on YouTube.  This address should be used at PayFast, and best use your email address as the reference on your bank deposit and email POP to me at booking@musicrevival.co.za.

A reminder! The re-launch session was Saturday 14 September at 7:00 pm - Beethoven, Bach and Chopin! At YouTube and www.musicrevival.co.za with another session of PIANO HOUR on Wednesday 18 September at 7:00 pm.

Watch our first ‘Behind the Music’ session here. 

Sunday 6 OCTOBER 3:00 pm 
ALL SOULS ANGLICAN CHURCH
Sheffield Beach Rd, Umhlali / Salt Rock
Tickets: R150 include tea/coffee and other refreshments at interval.
Booking preferred via WhatsApp 083 417 4473 or booking@musicrevival.co.za

Wednesday 9 OCTOBER 7:00 pm (NB this month on a Wednesday) 
AMBER VALLEY - Amber Auditorium 
Tickets: R80 Booking - Amber office open to Amber Valley residents  and their guests only. 

Previously …

Thursday 26 SEPTEMBER  3:30 pm
WOODGROVE - Community Centre
Tickets : R100 This concert at Woodgrove is open to all
Booking is essential via WhatsApp 083 417 4473 or booking@musicrevival.co.za

Friday 27 SEPTEMBER 7:00 pm 
CASA MEXICANA 
35 Montgomery Drive, Pietermaritzburg
Tickets: R250 includes dinner 
Menu: minestrone soup with bread and a delicious lemon posset (suitable for vegetarians ) or R100 concert only. 
Venue opens 30 mins before. Secure parking. 
BOOKING  IS ESSENTIAL : Book via WhatsApp 083 417 4473 or booking@musicrevival.co.za. Please include your contact numbers in all email bookings.

Sunday 29 SEPTEMBER 3:00 pm 
CASA MEXICANA 
35 Montgomery Drive, Pietermaritzburg 
Tickets: R100 . Venue opens 30 mins before (for tea /coffee on Sunday). Secure parking. 

Tuesday 1 OCTOBER 7:00 pm 
ST AGNES CHURCH, Kloof
Tickets: R130 include tea/coffee and other refreshments at interval.
Booking preferred via WhatsApp 083 417 4473 or booking@musicrevival.co.za

LIVESTREAM SERIES

Good news! We are resuming our livestream series. These will be  broadcast ‘live'. Some additional content may be pre-recorded.  My monthly recital programme (plus the background in-depth discussion of the music), and a monthly Piano Hour of varied and easy going music are on offer. However, viewers will now have to pay to see these three monthly sessions. Occasionally there will be free session such as the re-launch this  Saturday 14 September at 7:00 pm!

To become a paying member  of the LIVESTREAM SERIES you will be required to pay minimum monthly amount of R200 to access the online content. This will come into effect 1 October 2024  Until then the sessions will be still be free. 

Payment can be made via EFT (ie bank deposit) or via PayFast where recurring monthly payments are possible. (Please email me if wish to use PayPal or other international platforms.)  You will be to have a YouTube account (this is free to register) and the email address which you use to register at YouTube must be clearly linked to your name or payment. If it is not the same address you will not be able to access the content on YouTube.  This address should be used at PayFast, and best use your email address as the reference on your bank deposit and email POP to me at booking@musicrevival.co.za.

This may take a few tries to smooth out the glitches live but it is essential that all viewers now pay for the online sessions in order to see them. I am grateful for the numerous and generous donors who kindly supported with donations making the sessions freely available to all, starting in April 2020. Those wishing to continue to view and enjoy the sessions, of which everyone now has a clear idea, will need to pay for them.
At YouTube and www.musicrevival.co.za

In case you missed this month's offerings.

PIANO HOUR https://www.youtube.com/live/HPxoJZLk_hI?si=9AKqNwpVELSP0ztO

IN CONCERT https://www.youtube.com/live/xyoUZ9KH4M4?si=ixG2pwFvEytuDvPp

BEHIND THE MUSIC   https://youtube.com/live/xURS46BRi5Q

AN EVENING WITH KUTLWANO MASOTE 

CASA MEXICANA
35 Montgomery Drive, Pietermaritzburg 
Friday 20 September 2024  19h00 
Tickets: R200.  Please feel free to bring your women wine,  other refreshments provided.
Secure parking. 
BOOKING  IS ESSENTIAL 
Please include your contact numbers in all e-mail bookings.
Book via WhatsApp 083 417 4473 or booking@musicrevival.co.za

PREVIOUSLY …

Celebrated Piano Classics.
An appealing programme of classical piano music with pianist Christopher Duigan

Pianist Christopher Duigan will once-again present and play choices from the most iconic and celebrated music of the classical piano repertoire!  This includes Mozart - 'Rondo all turca', Liszt - ‘Liebestraume', Beethoven - 'Moonlight Sonata', Debussy - 'Clair de lune' and Chopin - 'Polonaise in A-flat Op. 53'. All your favourite classics with all-new stories!

Tuesday 3 SEPTEMBER 7:00 pm 
ST AGNES CHURCH, Kloof
Tickets: R130 include tea/coffee and other refreshments at interval.
Booking preferred via WhatsApp 083 417 4473 or booking@musicrevival.co.za

Thursday 5 SEPTEMBER 7:00 pm
AMBER VALLEY - Amber Auditorium 
Ticket : R80 Booking - Amber office open to Amber Valley residents  and their guests only. 


Friday 6 SEPTEMBER 7:00 pm 
CASA MEXICANA 
35 Montgomery Drive, Pietermaritzburg 

Tickets: R100 (concert only). Venue opens 30 mins before. Secure parking. 
BOOKING  IS ESSENTIAL : Book via WhatsApp 083 417 4473 or booking@musicrevival.co.za. Please include your contact numbers in all email bookings.

Stay for dinner after ! Add on R150.  Booking for dinner/ lunch is essential. Tables will be available  in the music studio, on the verandah, in the garden (weather dependant) , or by the fire! Menu: minestrone soup with crusty bread and a delicious lemon posset ( suitable for vegetarians ).  Booking for dinner or lunch is essential 

Sunday 8 SEPTEMBER 3: 00 pm CANCELLED
CASA MEXICANA 
35 Montgomery Drive, Pietermaritzburg 

• Tickets: R100 (concert only). Venue opens 30 mins before ( for tea /coffee on Sunday). Secure parking. 

Also at …

Thursday 29 AUGUST  3:30 pm
WOODGROVE - Community Centre
Tickest : R100 Open to all
Booking is essential via WhatsApp 083 417 4473 or booking@musicrevival.co.za

Sunday 1 SEPTEMBER 3:00 pm 
ALL SOULS ANGLICAN CHURCH
Sheffield Beach Rd, Umhlali / Salt Rock
Tickets: R150 include tea/coffee and other refreshments at interval.
Booking preferred via WhatsApp 083 417 4473 or booking@musicrevival.co.za

CHRISTOPHER DUIGAN at HILTON COLLEGE
In a major public performance at the new Chamberlain Music Centre at Hilton College, pianist Christopher Duigan plays a programme of highlights from recent programmes.  This includes Beethoven - Sonata op. 26, Chopin - Scherzo No.3, Bach - Preludes and Fugues from WTC Bk I and Rachmaninoff - Preludes Op. 23 Nos. 2 & 5.  in addition Duigan includes highlights of his recent “Popular Classics” programme presented in various veneus across KZN.

Widely regarded as one of South Africa's leading concert pianists, CHRISTOPHER DUIGAN has been recognized as a 'South African piano icon' and 'national musical treasure' (Classic Feel June 2009). He has performed extensively, giving over 100 concert performances  with leading South African orchestras in a repertoire of more than 25 works for piano and orchestra. In recital he has developed a popular following through his innovative presentation and programming of a broad and eclectic taste in music, appearing on all major stages and festival in South Africa.
The concert in Hilton takes place at the new Chamberlain Music Centre, Hilton College on Sunday 15 September starting at 15h00.  The venue offers a magnificent setting, concert grand piano and fine acoustic making it a valuable and prized addition to the local concert circuit.  Tickets are  R150 including  refreshments at interval.  Booking is preferred,  via Quicket. 

Coffeeberry in association with Christopher Duigan's Music Revival present
Celebrated Piano Classics.
An appealing programme of classical piano music with pianist Christopher Duigan

Leading South African concert pianist Christopher Duigan will present and play choices from the most iconic and celebrated music of the classical piano repertoire.  This includes Mozart - 'Rondo all turca', Liszt - ‘Liebetsraume'. Beethoven - 'Moonlight Sonata', Debussy - 'Clair de lune' and Chopin's - 'Polonaise in A-flat Op. 53'.

Coffeeberry Avenues, Hilton
Thursday 29 August
R350 pp includes a two-course meal from 6 pm
Booking : info@coffeeberry.co.za

A reminder for this Friday’s Pop-Up restaurant evening with Andrew Giles. Friday 23 August R450

Menu-

* Gnocchi alla Romana with confit tomatoes

* ⁠beetroot with herbed labneh and walnuts

* ⁠slow cooked chicken with sweet corn biscuits

* ⁠honey and yogurt tart with sumac roasted strawberries

MID - WINTER CLASSICS
Music with a relaxed and enchanting lyricism, like an afternoon in the winter sunshine, dominates this programme which Christopher Duigan plays for a number of outings.  With gentle undulation and extended, reassuring lines this programme is guaranteed to please and soothe!  Beethoven's  Sonata Op. 26, a work of compelling ‘Schubertian’ qualities, Chopin - Nocturne Op. 62 and Impromptu No. 1, and a selection from  Schubert's Impromptus Op. 90 make up the selection.

Thursday 1 AUGUST 7:00 pm
AMBER VALLEY - Amber Auditorium 
Ticket : R80 Booking - Amber office open to Amber Valley residents  and their guests only. 

Sunday 4 AUGUST 3:00 pm 
ALL SOULS ANGLICAN CHURCH
Sheffield Beach Rd, Umhlali / Salt Rock
Tickets: R150 include tea/coffee and other refreshments at interval.
Booking preferred via WhatsApp 083 417 4473 or booking@musicrevival.co.za

Tuesday 6 AUGUST 7:00 pm 
ST AGNES CHURCH, Kloof
Tickets: R130 include tea/coffee and other refreshments at interval.
Booking preferred via WhatsApp 083 417 4473 or booking@musicrevival.co.za

Friday 26 JULY 7:00 pm 
CASA MEXICANA 
35 Montgomery Drive, Pietermaritzburg 

Sunday 28 JULY 12:00 noon
CASA MEXICANA 
35 Montgomery Drive, Pietermaritzburg 

• Tickets: R100 (concert only)

• Venue opens 30 mins before ( for tea /coffee on Sunday)

• Secure parking. 

• BOOKING  IS ESSENTIAL Please include your contact numbers in all email bookings.

• Book via WhatsApp 083 417 4473 or booking@musicrevival.co.za

• Stay for dinner or lunch or dinner after ! Add on R150.  Booking for dinner/ lunch is essential. Tables will be available  in the music studio, on the verandah, in the garden (weather dependant) , or by the fire! Menu: minestrone soup with crusty bread and a delicious lemon posset ( suitable for vegetarians ).  Booking for dinner or lunch is essential 
  
  At Casa Mexicana : The opportunity to view a number of artworks by local artists including Ginny Heath, Terry King, Hussein Salim and Heather Gourlay-Conyngham in the venue adds to the experience. Some of these artworks are available for purchase.  Of course there is opportunity to explore the garden too - by day or night!
  
  This programme is also presented at …
  Thursday 25 JULY  3:30 pm
  WOODGROVE - Community Centre
  Tickest : R100
  Open to all
  Booking is essential via WhatsApp 083 417 4473 or booking@musicrevival.co.za
  
  

We are open for a POP UP RESTAURANT evening in July. 
FRIDAY 19 JULY 7:00 pm - with Carrie and Rob Boyd of ‘Tea on 23’
R450 pp. Book a table of four or more. We open at 6:30 pm.

{Please note these are not one hour concerts but dinner evenings that include a short music performance and background music.}

Be nourished by our Mid-Winter Pop-Up : Friday 19 July. With their trade-mark homely and generous style, Carrie and Rob Boyd of ‘Tea on 23’ invite you to enjoy a seasonal roast to see you through the mid- winter inertia - R450 pp. Book a table of four or more. We open at 6:30 pm. Book by return WhatsApp or email chris@musicrevival.co.za

Casa Mexicana throws open its doors in this ‘open house’ event. Spend a while by the fire in the kitchen, take in a glass of wine in the arty ‘snug' along with a cosy chat, and enjoy a beautiful nourishing, home-made meal with friends. There is background piano music with favourite tunes through the evening (a special touch!) and a short performance of evocative contemporary and ‘lite’ melodies to end.

As these evenings take place in the music studio, with tables allocated, places are limited. Book a table of four or more to avoid disappointment or join the ‘long ‘ table.

Booking essential via WhatsApp 083 417 4473 or booking@musicrevival.co.za

Tuesday 18 JUNE 2024

After a six month break from concert activity I will be resuming performances (hopefully regularly!) at the end of June with a line-up in KZN. 

A suitable venue in Hillcrest/ Kloof is still to be secured. If you are interested in attending concerts in this area and ARE willing to venture out on a weekday evening please let me know by return email. While Sundays are popular there are limited number of Sundays available in the month!

For those at the AMBERS keep a look out for a special Amberglades Concert 10 July and a return to Amber Valley Concerts on Thursday 1 August.

WINTER CLASSICS
A selection of new music I have been working on as well as some old favourites for a fiery and intense winter programme; Preludes and Fugues by JS Bach from ‘The Well Tempered Clavier’, Beethoven's stormy ‘Tempest' Sonata, Brahms - Intermezzo Op. 118 and a selection from Chopin's 12 Etudes Op 10.

Sunday 7 JULY 3:00 pm 
ALL SOULS ANGLICAN CHURCH
Sheffield Beach Rd, Umhlali / Salt Rock
Tickets: R150 include tea/coffee and other refreshments at interval.
Booking preferred via WhatsApp 083 417 4473 or booking@musicrevival.co.za

Friday 28 June is cancelled due to low bookings
Friday 28 JUNE 7:00 pm 
CASA MEXICANA 
35 Montgomery Drive, Pietermaritzburg 

Sunday 30 JUNE 12:00  noon
CASA MEXICANA 
35 Montgomery Drive, Pietermaritzburg 
Starting at 12:00 noon - we open at 11:15 am.
Tickets: R100
Venue opens 11:15 am for tea /coffee
Secure parking. 
BOOKING  IS ESSENTIAL Please include your contact numbers in all email bookings.
Book via WhatsApp 083 417 4473 or booking@musicrevival.co.za

Also at …
Thursday 27 JUNE  3:30 pm
WOODGROVE - Community Centre
Tickest : R100
Open to all
Booking is essential via WhatsApp 083 417 4473 or booking@musicrevival.co.za

4 June 2024

Dear friends and supporters,

I am hoping to start a regular series of performances in KZN once agin at the of June. This includes concerts at the Ambers, Woodgrove, in Ballito, and at my home Casa Mexicana; a POP UP dinner event (21June ) and Concert (28 June) A suitable venue in Hillcrest/ Kloof is still to be secured.

A preview or ‘warm-up’ to these performances will be staged this Friday.

WINTER PREVIEW

After a six month break from concert activity I will be staging a ‘preview' event and first attempt at a performance, this Friday 7 June.

I will play a selection of new music I have been working on, since the injury to my finger in December, as well as some old favourites; Preludes and Fugues by JS Bach, Beethoven's ‘Tempest' Sonata and Chopin's Scherzo No. 3.

Please reply ASAP if you would to attend and book a table.

Tickets: R300 - concert performance followed by soup and dessert. 
(Or R150 concert only)

Friday 7 June 19h00 
Casa Mexicana
35 Montgomery Drive, Pietermaritzburg 
Starting at 7:00 pm - we open at 6:30 pm.

Please bring your own wine/drinks. 
Street parking is patrolled. 
Book via WhatsApp 083 417 4473 or booking@musicrevival.co.zaPayment by EFT or cash at the door
Secure parking. 
BOOKING IS ESSENTIAL Please include your contact numbers in all e-mail bookings.

Friday 15 March

Dear friends,

Thank you to everyone who responded to my last email in which I detailed my decision to take time off from concertising. I have been encouraged by the positive and unconditional support for this ‘sabbatical’ or rest period.

In the interim I have been approached by those who have remarked that they are aware of events at my home in recent weeks where others have heard me playing.

These are in fact POP UP RESTAURANT evenings I have been hosting over the last year. Having been open only to close friends on a trial basis I am now offering those on my mail list an opportunity to join, should you wish.

I usually play one or two short pieces between courses of the meal and some incidental or background music ie populars songs etc during dinner.

This is not a concert but a causal café dinner evening. The meal prepared either by myself or a guest chef.

Guests are seated on the verandah in summer and in music the studio during the winter months. In addition there is a selection of selling artwork in the studio to view or purchase as well as an open house policy with seating areas and artworks exhibited in other rooms. And of course there is the garden!

Should you wish to join at one of these events please do visit my website from time to time where these will be advertised www.musicrevival.co.za, or WhatsApp me on 0834174473 requesting the POP UP list.

In March these POP UPs take place on Friday 22 (R300 pp) and Thursday 28 March (R400 pp).

Regards,

Chris

PS This is not a public event and those attending are my personal guests. No complaints are allowed!

Our popular Pop-Up Dinner evenings in March are both on long weekends - Friday 22 and Thursday 28 March. We are splitting our presentations into two streams; a casual cafe-style supper that I prepare myself, and the exotic flavour experiences you have come to enjoy with visiting chefs. I will be preparing a menu of Italian soup, pasta and dessert on Friday 22 (R300 pp), and Gregg of Sagewood Cafe will present a gourmet selection of Midlands flavours on Thursday 28 (R400 pp). The menus on both evenings will be suitable for vegetarians and of course will appeal to all! Booking is now open, so request your preferred tables of four (or more). We now open from 6:00 pm allowing guests to enjoy the garden on an early autumn evening. Dinner service starts at 7:00 pm, all at 35 Montgomery Dr. Please bring your own wine/drinks. Please advise of other dietary preferences on booking. Street parking is patrolled. Book via WhatsApp 083 34174473 (message only) or booking@musicrevival.co.za! [As usual there will be music!]

23 February

Dear friends and supporters,

I have received a number of queries as to when my concerts are resuming.

I had expected to be back at the end of February. My absence has been due to a bad cut to my middle finger on my right-handI suffered in December.

My finger has recovered well and I am finding my way back to piano practice without any restriction or discomfort. 

However, having three months away from my relentless performing and concert schedule has revealed to me how much I do need time off to rest.

A lot has changed in recent years and I have encountered several significant and challenging hurdles along the way.

As a result, I am intending  to take off additional time from public concerts and the demands of concert standard performance and the expectation of perfection that goes with it;  both that of the public and my own.

I am sure you will agree, performing the classical  piano repertoire publicly is not something that can be effectively undertaken without a 100% commitment.

I will be extending my time away (some may call it a sabbatical as I am continuing to practicing privately) for a number of weeks or months.

I trust you will understand my predicament and position.  

Thank you you all your unwavering support over the last 30 years since I began this rather unusual freelance approach to concertising in South Africa.

A reminder there are over 285 one-hour live sessions available for free on Youtube at my channel.

https://www.youtube.com/@ChristopherDuigan/videos  

I intend to edit some of these to present selections into playlists for additional enjoyment.

Regards,

Chris

CLASSIC ICONS  - James Grace in KZN

James Grace AT HILTON COLLEGE and in BALLITO

Music Revival proudly presents the award-winning guitarist James Grace at Hilton College and in Ballito at the All Souls Anglican Church.

James Grace  is one of one South Africa’s leading concert artists. In recent years he has appeared with the Cape Philharmonic, the KwaZulu-Natal Philharmonic, the Johannesburg Festival, the Johannesburg Philharmonic and the Free State Symphony in concerti by Rodrigo, Villa-Lobos, Giuliani and Vivaldi.

James’s recent concert schedule has taken him throughout South Africa, the U.A.E, Windhoek and Zimbabwe.  James studied at the Royal College of Music in London as a Foundation Scholar with Carlos Bonell. Upon graduating he became the first guitarist in the history of the College to receive the Tagore Gold Medal, an annual award presented to the most outstanding student.

He will play a popular selection of classical and Spanish guitar favourites.

Chamberlain Music Centre
Hilton College
Sunday 7 January 2024 - 15h00 
Tickets: R150 includes refreshments at interval.
Tickets at the door or via MUSIC REVIVAL WhatsApp (message only) 083 4174473 or  booking@musicrevival.co.za

SALT ROCK - BALLITO All Souls Anglican Church
Sunday 14 January - 15h00
Tickets: R150 includes refreshments at interval.
Tickets at the door or via MUSIC REVIVAL WhatsApp (message only) 083 4174473 or  booking@musicrevival.co.za