The spotlight will soon fall on South Africa’s top young classical musicians as the Hubert van der Spuy National Music Competition returns to the Endler Hall in Stellenbosch from 30 September to 4 October.
Now in its 36th year, this instrumental competition—organised by the Tygerberg branch of the South African Society of Music Teachers (SASMT) — has become a key platform for musicians aged 13 and younger.
It offers them the chance to compete nationally, gain performance experience, and share in a supportive musical community.
This year continues the successful collaboration with the Stellenbosch University (SU) Department of Music.
Prof Mario Nell reaffirmed the department’s commitment to nurturing talent and building a culture of excellence and inclusivity in the arts.
Finalists
A total of 47 finalists were selected after nationwide auditions.
The Western Cape leads the field with 24 participants, followed by Gauteng (15), KwaZulu-Natal (3), and the Eastern Cape (1).
Finalists from the northern suburbs of Cape Town:
Competition chairperson Hilda Boonzaaier, recently honoured with SASMT honorary membership, said, “If the quality of the auditions is any indication, the finals promise to be an absolute treat. We invite music lovers to come and be wowed by this exceptional talent.”
Named after renowned music teacher Prof Hubert van der Spuy, the competition continues to reflect his legacy of excellence.
A respected figure in South African music, Van der Spuy remains active as an adjudicator and donor of the competition’s top prize, named in memory of his mother, Johanna van der Spuy.
The last eight finalists will compete for top honours at the gala concert on Saturday 4 October at 16:00.
. Tickets for the gala concert cost R100 and are available here at Webtickets.
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