"I have learnt with shock the untimely death of Deon Van der Walt, a proudly South African opera star who was born and bred in our province and brought his extensive knowledge on culture back to the soil of the Western Cape. Although he will not be performing anymore, his spirit will live on through the exquisite heritage of his voice. He represented this province and country with distinction and will be remembered for numerous concerts, international festivals and recital performances."

Deon studied singing at the University of Stellenbosch and made his debut at the Artscape Opera House in Cape Town even before graduating. Numerous scholarships and awards allowed him to continue his studies abroad. He has been counted amongst the leading lyric tenors and has performed at all the world's major opera houses.

Deon sang opera for a living and he also owned Veenwouden Estate, a boutique winery on the northern side of Paarl. The tenor of Cape Town established Veenwouden in 1988. His parents, mother, Sheila and father, the late Charles, managed the daily operations of the farm while his brother contributed to the family affair as winemaker.

Issued by:
Mandla Yeki
Spokesperson for Ministry
Cultural Affairs, Sport and Recreation
Tel: (021) 483 9804
Fax: (021) 483 9801
Mobile:082 553 3477
Protea Assurance Building, Green Market Square
Cape Town

Home for All - Tuiste vir Almal - iKhaya Lethu Sonke