The annual Hubert van der Spuy National Music Competition is a career highlight for young music prodigies.
The competition’s 35th year celebration will be marked by a new collaboration with the Stellenbosch University (SU) music department.
“The SU music department is the oldest institution of its kind in South Africa, and boasts a proud tradition, spanning more than a century, of dedication to music education, the performing arts, creative work and academic research,” said departmental chairperson Professor Mario Nell.
“The Hubert van der Spuy National Music Competition’s commitment to identify, develop and provide public exposure to our country’s outstanding young generation of classical musicians, fit hand in glove with the music department’s commitment to reach out further into the school-going ages and foster such young talents.”
Hilda Boonzaaier, chairperson of the Tygerberg branch of the South African Society of Music Teachers (SASMT), said they are excited to celebrate the competition’s milestone birthday.
“Celebrating 35 years is no small feat! We are utterly thrilled with the quality of entries and the diversity of instruments received from students across South Africa and Namibia. We wish everyone the very best as they prepare for our competition week,” she added.
“We are proud to announce our new collaboration with the SU music department. The beautiful Endler Hall will be our home from 16 to 20 September. This collaboration will indeed introduce a new chapter to the rich history of our competition.”
The competition is organised and presented by the Tygerberg branch of the SASMT, with the first competition being held in 1989.
It was inspired by Professor Hubert van der Spuy, a former chairperson of the SASMT and widely respected music teacher.
Van der Spuy’s work ethic, integrity and charisma is legendary. He is an active member of the SASMT and served as its national president for four terms. He has been patron of the Atterbury National Piano Competition since 2018, and is still active as an adjudicator and external examiner for prominent universities.
The optimal development of young musicians has always been a priority for Van der Spuy, and the establishment and continued success of this competition over more than three decades confirms his visionary role in the music life of South Africa.
The competition is the only one of its kind in South Africa and offers a unique opportunity for children aged 13 years and younger to compete against their peers from across the country.
The rigorous programme demanded of participants ensures a high standard of quality is maintained, while providing them with a platform from which to gain invaluable performance experience. As the custodian of young talent, the competition seeks to foster a positive environment in which the musical community of educators, their students and parents, can share ideas and support for one another.
A total of 49 participants will take to the stage of the Endler Hall in September, with 22 musicians representing the Western Cape. The competition final will be live-streamed on the competition’s YouTube channel on Friday 20 September.
- To be part of the audience at the Endler Hall, tickets will be available through Webtickets.
