The Hubert van der Spuy National Music Competition, now in its 37th year, is a highlight for young performing artists.

Organised by the Tygerberg branch of the South African Society of Music Teachers (SASMT) and first held in 1989, the competition is inspired by Professor Hubert van der Spuy, the former chairperson of the SASMT (Tygerberg branch) and widely respected music teacher.

Van der Spuy’s contributions are widely recognised: the Huberte Rupert Prize (2011 to 2012); an Honorary Licentiate from Unisa; a Lifetime Achievement Award at the 13th KykNET Fiëstas (2023); and an Honorary Doctorate from North-West University (2023).

He was SASMT national president for four terms and patron of the Atterbury National Piano Competition. He donated the competition’s first prize, named after his late mother, Johanna van der Spuy.

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Excellent work entered

This year, the competition continues its collaboration with the Stellenbosch University (SU) music department.

“The SU Department of Music is proud to be part of this valuable initiative and to once again host the competition,” said SU representative Professor Mario Nell.

“Opportunities such as these play an indispensable role in nurturing the next generation of South African musicians.”

Hilda Boonzaaier, chairperson of the SASMT (Tygerberg branch) and honorary member since 2024, said: “It was a huge privilege to listen to the excellent work entered by learners and teachers. We also acknowledge the precious role of everyone giving support to our young musicians. Keep up the good work! We are excited to experience your progress and hear your performances.”

Aspiring talents

The competition has grown into the most prestigious of its kind in Southern Africa, offering a unique opportunity for children aged 13 and younger to compete against peers nationwide.

Several previous winners have advanced to tertiary music study and become acclaimed performers and educators.

Dr Marlene le Roux, disability and women’s rights activist, CEO of Artscape Theatre Centre and ATKV chairperson, has served as the competition’s patron since 2019.

The 2026 competition welcomes 47 participants, with 26 from the Western Cape, 16 from Gauteng, four from KwaZulu-Natal, and one from Namibia. The adjudicators are Pamela Kierman, Jeanne-Louise Moolman and Waldo Weyer.

The competition week runs from Tuesday 22 to Saturday 26 September at the Endler and Fismer halls at the SU Konservatroium, with cash prizes exceeding R100 000.

The opening ceremony on 22 September and first three rounds are free and open to the public.

The Gala Concert finale will be live streamed on Youtube on 26 September at 15:00. Endler Hall audience tickets are R100 via Webtickets.

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