Notes of the Vine: Hanlee Louw’s Passion for Music and Wine
A Conversation with Hanlee Louw: South Africa’s Coloratura Soprano Bringing Song, Spice, and Soul to Life
I recently had the pleasure of conducting an online interview with Hanlee Louw, an accomplished coloratura soprano whose talent and passion have taken her from the Swartland region of South Africa to some of the most renowned opera stages in the world.
Hanlee’s love for opera began at an early age, growing up in the heart of the Cape. Inspired by the sounds of classical music and supported by her uncle, the celebrated South African pianist Albie Louw, Hanlee was encouraged to take formal singing lessons. This guidance led her to study under the legendary Dr Nellie du Toit, a foundational step in what would become a remarkable musical journey.
In 1986, Hanlee won a prestigious study bursary from the Friends of the Cape Town Opera, allowing her to pursue a Performance Diploma at the University of Cape Town under the tutelage of Professor Angelo Gobbato. These formative years not only refined her technical prowess but also deepened her understanding of the discipline and dedication required to succeed in the demanding world of opera.
Throughout the interview, Hanlee emphasised the importance of finding the right teacher and mastering the correct vocal technique, essentials for any singer who wants to preserve their voice and grow artistically. She spoke with admiration about the teachers and mentors who helped shape her voice and career.
But Hanlee's talents extend beyond the stage. She also revealed her deep love for cooking, which started in childhood and matured into a sophisticated culinary passion. Influenced by Italian spices and flavours, she developed her own distinctive cooking style, blending her South African roots with Mediterranean flair. Food, much like music, is a form of expression for Hanlee, a sensory art form where creativity knows no bounds.
Her appreciation for fine wine complements her love for music and cuisine. For Hanlee, wine and song are inextricably linked—both rich in tradition, both meant to be savoured. This holistic approach to the arts led her to create a unique dining and performance experience in her own restaurant, where guests could indulge in exquisite food while enjoying live performances from some of South Africa’s top vocal talent.
As for the future, Hanlee envisions continuing to blend her passions—music, food, and wine, in innovative ways. She dreams of creating more spaces where these art forms can coexist, offering people soulful experiences that touch the heart and delight the senses.
With a voice that has graced some of the world's grandest stages, and a spirit rooted in warmth, artistry, and authenticity, Hanlee Louw is more than a soprano, she is a storyteller, a creator, and an ambassador for the beauty that arises when different forms of art come together.
https://www.boscos.co.za/about-hanlee-louw