As the saying goes, music is the universal language of humankind.
And it is this language that Kensington resident Thurloe Ernstzen is on a mission to convey to the world.
Ernstzen (35) is a music educator and liaison at Parklands College – Senior Preparatory Faculty. He is also an accompanist to one of the vocal coaches at Sing in Harmony National Girls’ Intermediate and Youth Choir.
Additionally, he is the conductor of the Winelands Chamber Choir based in Paarl.
Ernstzen explains his passion for music started at the tender age of seven when he started piano lessons at Kenmere Primary School. He then joined the school’s choir, which was led by the esteemed conductor Lizl Gaffley at the time.
Ernstzen concluded his high school education at Pinelands High, after which he pursued a Bachelor of Music degree (BMUS) at the University of Cape Town (UCT).
He has garnered experience as an adjudicator of various competitions, including that of the Malay Choir, Anglican Brigade and music eisteddfods.
“I am passionate about teaching music as well as making music with fellow musicians, and being able to encourage and inspire others through music.”
He said he is fascinated by music as a form of expression.
“Teaching music and collaborative music creation allow for the expression of various emotions, ranging from joy to sorrow, enthusiasm to fatigue. Music possesses the power to transport individuals to alternate realms, whether you are facing difficult challenges or simply just feeling happy or content.
“After a performance I tell myself ‘Thurloe, this is why you do this, to give my choristers the platform to build confidence and show them that life is worth living’.”
Ernstzen says he draws inspiration from his favourite choral composers, which include Kim André Arnesen, Erik Whitacre and Ola Gjeilo.
“Currently, my primary emphasis lies in choral music, although I may also explore jazz and contemporary genres.”
He lives by the motto “hard work pays off”, and this is evident in what he has managed to accomplish so far.
Through his musical leadership his choir, the Winelands Chamber Choir (Paarl), achieved a Golden Diploma at the World Choir Games in Tshwane, Gauteng, in 2018.
Ernstzen said his choir was hoping to participate in the World Choir Games in 2020 in Belgium, but their plans were derailed by the Covid-19 pandemic.
He said they now have their eye on the prize at the choir games in 2025.
“We are looking forward to part-taking in the African Asia Pacific Choir Games in 2025. This year we will participate in the Paarl Valley Eisteddfod in August, and we hope to achieve good results.”
Ernstzen ascribed his musical prowess to his parents.
“Without my parents, I would not be where I am today.”
He encouraged young people to reach for the stars.
“To our young people, don’t give up on your dreams. Keep your eyes focused on achieving great things.
“It may not happen immediately, but it surely will pay off when the time is right.”
