Biography
Kobie du Plessis
Born into a family deeply entrenched in culture and creativity, Kobie’s tryst with music began at the tender age of seven with piano lessons. Her innate talent was soon recognized, winning her scholarships and setting her on a path of musical excellence. By the age of twelve, she was already immersed in the enchanting world of the harp, with harmonious family sing-alongs during car trips further enriching her musical foundation.
Career
Her global career spans solo, orchestral, and chamber music performances across South Africa, Europe, and Latin America. Notably, she has performed at the Rio Harp Festival multiple times (2015–2023), was selected as one of the top 4 harpists worldwide in 2019, and opened the Festival in 2024.
She has played with orchestras such as the Cape Town Symphony, CAPAB (Artscape), SABC Junior Orchestra, and in Europe with ensembles in the Netherlands, Germany, Austria, and Spain. Highlights include performances with José Carreras, Luciano Pavarotti, and recordings for radio and television..
Musical
Kobie's tryst with music began at the tender age of seven with piano lessons. Her prodigious talent soon won her scholarships, and by twelve, she was immersed in the world of the harp. Memories of harmonious family sing-alongs during car trips further enriched her musical foundation.
Achievements
A student of the University of Pretoria, Kobie majored in harp with piano as her secondary instrument. Her exceptional talent was recognized with the Pretorium Trust Scholarship for best performance. She also toured South America with the SABC Junior Orchestra, leaving an indelible mark with her performances.
Footprint
Kobie's quest for musical excellence took her to Europe, where she studied under legendary harpists in The Hague and Brussels. She performed as a soloist in prestigious venues like the Zuid Afrikahuis in Amsterdam and collaborated with renowned musicians in Spain. Her performances at the Rio Harp Festival, especially her rendition of Baroque Flamenco, were met with standing ovations.
Legacy
Beyond her performances, Kobie has been a beacon of hope and inspiration. She has performed for charitable causes, supported organizations aiding underprivileged women and children, and imparted her knowledge by teaching harp and piano. Her involvement with the Heydeburg Orchestra, a charity orchestra in Southern Africa, showcases her commitment to aiding those with vision or hearing impairments.
Recent highlights
- Mozart Harp and Flute Concerto in Stellenbosch, South Africa
- Opening soloist for Rio and São Paulo Harp Festivals
- Online performances for Rio Harp Festival and World Harp Day
- Multiple appearances at Rio Harp Festival, consistently acclaimed, opening Rio Harp Festival in 2024 with String Ensemble Uere in Rio de Janeiro performing Debussy Danses and JC Bach harp concertos with them.
- Mozart Harp and Flute Concerto in Stellenbosch, South Africa