The “Clazzical” Organ Works of Surendran Reddy

This study will show the form analysis, harmonic structure and socio-economic understanding of two organ works written by Surendran Reddy (1962-2010) post-apartheid (after 1994). Toccata for Madiba and Mayibuye Suite are both examples of what Reddy refers to as "Clazz" - a blend of Classical Western Art Music traditions with Jazz performance practices in a South African context.
The first piece, Toccata for Madiba, was written towards the end of Nelson Mandela’s (1918-2013) term as president of South Africa, at the peak of his popularity. As this was a celebratory time, one filled with hope, this joyous and boisterous Toccata depicts the general mood and excitement of the country at the time. This piece was written for the University of South Africa (UNISA) International Organ Competition and performed by each of the competitors. The second piece - Mayibuye Suite - is a three-movement work composed in 2001 and also incorporates Clazzical idioms throughout. Both these pieces were composed upon Reddy’s return to South Africa, after spending five years at the Royal College of Music in London.
During apartheid, Reddy and many other musicians of color performed in illegal clubs, called shebeens, in South Africa. Performances at these shebeens featured various genres and dance styles, particularly Mbaqanga, Marabi & Isicathamiya. It was only after a few regular performances at these informal settlements and taking keyboard improvisation classes that Reddy’s musical palette started to broaden, resulting in compositions that were harmonically rich and rhythmically stimulating.
To date there has been little scholarship on South African Clazzical works for the organ. This study will not only serve as a practice guide but will provide contextual information and narrativity for this type of music.