PLETTENBERG BAY NEWS - A lament in honour of Anneke Lamont who taught music at Oakhill School in Knysna before becoming Head of Piano at the Odeion School of Music in Bloemfontein, will take place in Plettenberg Bay next week.

The moving tribute to her will be by carried out by revered classical pianist Charl du Plessis, who attributes his 'new direction' in piano music to Lamont. 

In 2009 Du Plessis recorded a CD titled Piano Man and the musical producer of this recording was none other than Anneke Lamont.

"Her kind guidance and musical mastermind launched a new direction in Du Plessis' career, and they remained friends for many years," said Lady Conyngham who has organised the event. "To honour Anneke and her legacy, this recital is dedicated to her memory."

The programme will include works by Bach, Rachmaninov, Chopin as well as some improvisations on suggestions from the audience. For Du Plessis, a personal dream-come-true happened on International Piano Day (29 March) when he travelled with his own Steinway to perform a recital in the setting of the Nazareth House Chapel in Pretoria. 

A sold-out house enjoyed Beethoven, Brahms, Gershwin and many more compositions.

The idea for Du Plessis happened when a special Steinway came on the market and his friend and mentor, renowned Swiss piano technician Urs Bachmann, encouraged him to buy and restore the instrument for touring South Africa. 

Du Plessis has learnt to transport the piano by himself and to prepare it for concerts wherever he goes. With the help of Bachmann, Du Plessis has worked intensively on his piano, replacing parts and servicing the instrument to meet international standards.

The recital takes place at Piesang Valley Community Hall, Plettenberg Bay, on Wednesday 14 June and tickets are available from Quicket.

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