Meet Our Head of Bowed Strings: Wim Wybenga
Get ready to be inspired by Wim Wybenga, our dynamic Head of Bowed Strings and manager of Symphonix at NW Musikon! Specializing in violin and viola, Wim’s musical journey began at age 7 with the piano, but it was the captivating voice of the violin that truly stole his heart. He quickly excelled, earning his Grade 8 in violin from UNISA with distinction in 1994, and followed that achievement with a Grade 8 in piano in 2010, also with distinction.
Wim’s passion for learning is exceptional; he even completed his B.Sc Honns. in Earth Sciences from the NWU (Cum laude) while continuing his violin studies. His impressive career includes a memorable performance for His Majesty, King Letsie III of Lesotho at the Royal Palace in Maseru in 2009, and the release of his debut CD, “Café-Clarens,” in 2010.
In 2011, Wim led a violin workshop at NW Musikon, little knowing it would soon become his musical home. Since 2012, he has been a full-time violin instructor here, shaping our string program. His collaborative spirit shone through in 2012 when he partnered with the Drakensberg Boys Choir for their “Music in the Mountains” production, and in 2013, he was invited to perform on the popular Afrikaans talk show, Pasella, for their Klerksdorp celebration.
Wim’s commitment to continuous growth is evident in his Trinity College London Licentiate (LTCL Recital) Diploma and his participation in UNISA string symposiums with renowned artists like Tim Kliphuis, Eddy Marcano, and Max Baillie. He has had the privilege of learning from esteemed mentors including Yana Lechtman, Piet Koornhof, Francios Henkins, Elmarie van der Vyver, and Annamarie Schulenberg. With Wim’s expertise, our bowed string students are in exceptional hands!
