Amidst the challenges faced by artists worldwide, where closed curtains and silenced concert halls prevail, a remarkable new album emerges, inviting audiences to unite in a journey of hope. Soprano and producer Magdalene Minnaar, conductor Alexander Fokkens, and the Ensemble 528, a newly formed collective, join forces to embrace music as a solace, offering solace and rejuvenation through Songs of Hope.

With meticulous selection, the repertoire weaves together a tapestry of compositions, carefully curated to soothe and uplift the listener’s spirit. Spanning across the centuries, the timeless genius of Bach and Mozart intertwines with the enduring melodies of Strauss and Grieg, while the voices of homegrown composers Franco Prinsloo and Matthijs van Dijk add a touch of resonant familiarity.

Employing the extraordinary Schoeps ORTF3D microphone alongside an array of top-tier recording equipment. Through our meticulous recording and precise mixing techniques, we endeavored to transport listeners into the heart of the musical experience, inviting them to immerse themselves in the sublime soundscape crafted by the talented ensemble. The result is a recording that not only preserves the essence and authenticity of the performance but also captivates the senses, leaving a lasting impression on all who have the privilege of hearing it.