The history of the Cape Town Orchestra : 1914-1997

Abstract

The Cape Town Orchestra has exerted a major influence on the development of orchestral music and musical culture not only in Cape Town but throughout South Africa. It was the first professional orchestra in South Africa and came into existence on 28 February 1914. The Orchestra's history has been divided into two main periods. During the first period, from 1914 to 1968, the Orchestra was known as the Cape Town Municipal Orchestra. During the second period, from 1969 until its final performance in 1997, the Orchestra was known as the Cape Town Symphony Orchestra. The Orchestra received financial support from the Cape Town Municipality throughout its existence. After receiving its final municipal grant in 1996 the Orchestra could not survive without financial assistance, and merged with the Capab Orchestra to become the Cape Town Philharmonic Orchestra. The Cape Town Philharmonic Orchestra gave. its inaugural performance on 1 April 1997.