Sound me Out

Overview & Synopsis

To encounter Sound Me Out: A Lifetime of Music and Memories is to experience the extraordinary journey of a woman who has shaped the soundscape of South Africa. Jeanne’s story unfolds not only as a chronicle of personal achievement, but also as a reflection of our nation’s cultural evolution - one that spans from the apartheid years to a democracy still finding its harmony. Her achievement as the first woman in South Africa to be awarded a doctorate in music composition, her studies with the renowned György Ligeti, and her prolific output of over eighty compositions all stand as testimony to her remarkable intellect and creative courage. Yet it is Jeanne’s deep humanity that has always struck me most. Whether composing an oratorio for human rights, mentoring young composers, or collaborating across genres and cultures, she approaches each endeavour with empathy, insight, and an infectious enthusiasm for discovery. Beyond her outstanding contribution to music, Jeanne possesses an extraordinary gift for language. She is, without doubt, one of the most eloquent and expressive writers I have encountered in my life. Her writing - at once precise, lyrical, and deeply thoughtful - mirrors the same artistry that characterises her music. It comes, I believe, from the same inner well of imagination and intellect that makes her such a fascinating creative force.