BEHIND THE MUSIC OF KERWIN PETRUS
About
Kerwin Lawrance Petrus (b.2000) is a composer, arranger and flautist based in Kuils River, South Africa. He recently graduated with an MMus in composition (Cum Laude) from Stellenbosch University where he studied with Mr. Arthur Feder. In 2022, he graduated with a BMus (Cum Laude) from Stellenbosch University, studying flute with Dr. Bridget Rennie-Salonen and composition with Mr. Arthur Feder and Dr. Antoni Schonken. Alongside his master’s studies he took lessons in African music with Dr. Ncebekazi Mnukwana and Mr Vuyo Katsha.
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Music
His current output encompasses a variety of ensembles and instrumentations and exhibits neo-classical, clazz, nuevo-tango, impressionist, R&B and ghoema influences, often featuring colourful quartal and quintal harmonic structures. Further, he hopes to pursue doctoral studies, and his current research is concerned with analysis, musical syntax and South African popular music.
Research
The other component of my master's studies is the thesis which is an exploration of yaadt music through this lens of vibe. Expanding my practice in style critical analysis, I endeavour to explore this unique style of South African house music by revealing trends in harmony, structure, rhythmic patterns etc. It is essentially an exploration of musical syntax that allows us to discover the structuring forces that may be used to organise music across genres.
Achievements
In 2023, Petrus saw his radio debut on RSG with the performance of two art songs from his Ons Komvandaan collection. In 2024, he placed 3rd in the Alexander South African Composer's Award Competition with his Suite for Orchestra and he was selected as a finalist for the One Found Sound Emerging Composer’s Award in the US.
Featured Flute Performance
