"Another revelation was the performance of Elgar’s Cello Concerto, played by a rising star of classical music, Abel Selaocoe. Originally from South Africa’s townships, Mr. Selaocoe – through determination, ambition and his God-given talent for music – rose through various conservatories, to become not just a proficient player of the cello, but a virtuoso: a man on the threshold of what could be international acclaim. The soloist interpreted one of the most instantly recognisable English works in the repertoire with a feeling and emotion which made you almost believe that he was a native of Elgar’s Malvern Hills, Herefordshire and the land of the Severn. One of the great tests of the concerto is the devilishly-difficult second movement, an Allegro Molto – a rapid, darting, whirligig passage which requires nimble manoeuvres, quick wits, utter concentration and panache. Abel Selaocoe passed the test with flying colours, and brought the Concerto to a majestic conclusion – summarising all of Elgar’s autumnal colour and deep-seated nostalgia."
"This year's Standard Bank Young Artist Award winner for Music, cellist Abel Selaocoe (24), is a shining example of a musician pushing the limits. "Abel is quickly becoming a consummate artist possessing great skill, command and flair on the cello. Coming from humble beginnings in Sebokeng, he has ascended to perform on world stages, combining a new eclectic sound with the mainstream..."
"It is rare to find as compelling a synthesis of explosive technical prowess and captivating powers of communication as that embodied by the extraordinarily gifted South African cellist, Abel Selaocoe."
