The Boston Philharmonic Youth Orchestra Plays Regina Mundi Church

by Daluxolo Moloantoa · June 14, 2023

Named “Best Classical Music Ensemble” by Boston Magazine in 2019, the Boston Philharmonic Youth Orchestra (BPYO) is coming to South Africa this June. The acclaimed classical music orchestra will be staging musical performances in Pretoria, Johannesburg, Cape Town and in Makhanda during the tour between June 17-25.

Now in its eleventh season, the tuition-free orchestra has garnered critical acclaim for its superb and memorable performances in Boston, at Carnegie Hall, and on seven international tours. The 106 members of the BPYO range in age from 12 to 21 and are chosen through a highly-selective audition process.

The group will kick off its maiden South African tour with a performance at the Regina Mundi Church in Soweto on June 17. The Southern Cross features writer Daluxolo Moloantoa had a Question & Answer session with four Catholic members of the ensemble on their expectations for their first musical tour to South Africa and the significance of performing at the historic Regina Mundi Church. This is the third of a four-part series:

Daluxolo interviews Harold Rivas, percussionist in the BYPO

Q: Which parish do you attend church in your city?

A: I am a regular visitor to the St Clement Shrine in Boston Massachusetts (MA). Last year, my sister and I played in the band for the six pm Masses at the St Cecilia Church, also in Boston Massachusetts (MA).

Q: What are you looking forward to on the BPYO tour of South Africa this June?

A: I am looking forward to learning more about South Africa’s culture, history, and especially music. I am originally a Latin & pop musician, and have been learning more about the origins of these two macro-genres, and how they are derived from African musical traditions. While I don’t know if South African music is related in this, I’m excited to learn!

Q: What does it mean to you to be able to perform at a highly significant Catholic church, the Regina Mundi Catholic Church in Soweto?

A: Playing at the Regina Mundi Catholic Church in Soweto is a chance for me to musically connect with important human history. I have always been seeking ways to experience the grace of God through music. I think that having the opportunity to perform at the iconic “People`s Church” will allow me to have an experience like this, as well as share it with those who are with us for the performance. I could not be more grateful for this opportunity.

Read interviews with Thomas Juhasz, Rosie Conway, Harold Rivas and Christopher Broyles