MIAGI's patron, world renowned violinist Maxim Vengerov (33) is joining the festival in support of MIAGI’s objectives and the MIAGI Youth Orchestra Programme in his capacity as UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador. It was Vengerov who in 2003 baptised MIAGI. He repeated the following phrase in which he believes firmly to the media: ‘Music Is a Great Investment’ - MIAGI. He will be working with and conducting the MIAGI Youth Chamber Orchestra. Vengerov believes strongly in the healing power of music and wishes to, through his presence, assist MIAGI in promoting music education as a tool for positive social development - a powerful tool that is still too often underestimated. Vengerov, who has since 2000 also been dedicating himself increasingly to conducting, is considered one of the most extraordinary musicians of his time, and the supreme violinist of his generation. Vengerov will be sharing his thoughts with the audience, and working with the young players before the performance – this event, which eludes an 'easy definition' could perhaps also be billed as a: ’Master Class for Orchestra with Maxim Vengerov'? Be prepared for some surprises!

Vengerov the pedagogue Since October 2000, Vengerov has been a Professor of Violin at the Musikhochschule des Saarlandes and since 2005 Visiting Professor at the Royal Academy of Music in London. Another passion of Vengerov’s life is his involvement with young people through giving public master classes. One such event was recorded by Channel Four Television as part of a documentary on Vengerov called ‘Playing by Heart’ shown at the Cannes Television Festival in 1999.

Tickets: R 45 and R75