Hermann-Lietz School - Haubinda
Westville Girl's High School, Durban, South Africa
Phorms Süd
Performances
during High School Time
First Public Performances and Musical Exploration
It was during my time at the Kolleg that I discovered a love for contemporary music. Inspired by iconic bands like The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, and The Doors, my classmates and I formed a student rock band. Lacking professional instruments, we improvised with whatever was available, driven by a shared enthusiasm for making music.
Our initial performances took place within the school, and as our confidence grew, we began performing at Jugendzentren (youth centers) in the surrounding area. These performances were not only well-received but also marked my first public appearances as a musician, blending creativity and collaboration in a way that was both thrilling and transformative. Initially, my parents were skeptical of my modern musical direction, given their classical background. However, as they witnessed my dedication and the positive reception of our band, they gradually grew more supportive.
My Organ Experience in Illertissen (1975–1982)
While attending the Kolleg der Schulbrüder, my role as the organist at St. Martin Catholic Church in Illertissen became a defining part of my life. This journey began in 1975 under the mentorship of Xaver Plersch, the church’s longtime organist and a man deeply committed to the sacred art of music. Under his guidance, I developed both technical proficiency and a deep understanding of the liturgical significance of music. Tragically, his passing in 1975 left a void, and at just 13 years old, I was entrusted with the responsibility of stepping into his role. This opportunity, though daunting at first, proved to be a pivotal chapter in my personal and musical development.
Balancing my schoolwork with the responsibilities of being the church organist was a challenge, but it also instilled in me a sense of discipline and time management. My duties included playing for Sunday services, weddings, funerals, and special liturgical events, all of which required careful preparation and execution. The music I performed was central to the spiritual atmosphere of the parish, and I took great pride in ensuring that every piece resonated with the solemnity or joy of the occasion.
The organ at St. Martin became both a sanctuary and a training ground. Beyond playing during services, I used the instrument to refine my skills, often practicing late into the evenings. These sessions not only helped me excel in my high school studies but also laid the groundwork for my formal music education at the Mozarteum in Salzburg. Even after leaving Illertissen to pursue my studies in 1982, my connection to the parish remained strong. During visits home, I was often asked to return to the organ bench, a testament to the bond I had formed with the church community through music.
The experience of serving as the organist during my high school years and beyond taught me invaluable lessons about responsibility, resilience, and the emotional power of music. It also deepened my connection to sacred music, which would continue to influence my artistic and professional journey. While this chapter is a story in itself, its impact reaches far beyond my time at St. Martin, shaping my approach to music and performance to this day.
