The Stellenbosch International Piano Symposium will celebrate a major milestone when it presents its 10th edition from 25 to 29 March at Stellenbosch University Conservatory.
Since its inception in 2012 the biennial event has become a highlight of South Africa’s classical music calendar, drawing international talent and providing a platform for local musicians to network and develop their craft.
This year’s programme promises to be the most ambitious yet, featuring debut performances by world-class pianists and expanding to include jazz for the first time alongside its traditional classical offerings.
International talent takes centre stage
Bulgarian virtuoso Ludmil Angelov will make his South African debut during the symposium, bringing his internationally acclaimed interpretations of Chopin to local audiences. Having performed at major concert halls worldwide, Angelov is renowned for his complete cycles of the Polish composer’s works.
Fellow Bulgarian pianist Emanuil Ivanov returns for his second symposium appearance. Audiences will also experience the artistry of Estonian pianist Kärt Ruubel, celebrated across Europe as both soloist and collaborative musician.
The symposium will present top-tier solo piano concerts every evening, culminating in the popular Piano Extravaganza on Sunday 29 March, featuring 10 pianos performing simultaneously.
Competition expands with new categories
A major development for this year is the introduction of a junior category for pianists of Grade 4 level and above, alongside the established Hennie Joubert Piano Competition run in partnership with the Cape Town Philharmonic Orchestra.
The competition’s final round will take place on Saturday 28 March in the Endler Hall under the baton of rising conducting star Jacobus de Jager. The first two rounds, free to the public, will be held on Monday 23 and Tuesday 24 March.
In another first, jazz participants will join the symposium, working with major artists including Andrew Lilley, Melvin Peters, and Ramon Alexander, reflecting the growing trend for cross-genre musical exploration.
Art and music unite for opening
The symposium will launch on Wednesday 25 March with the public unveiling of new artwork by renowned artist Gavin Rain, followed by a free outdoor performance of Peter Louis van Dijk’s “The Selfish Giant” featuring orchestra, choir, narrator and soloists.
The opening festivities continue with a piano recital in the Endler Hall by promising young South African pianist Leo Gevisser.
Aspiring participants apply now
The event caters for both serious musicians and music lovers, offering public masterclasses, lessons and lectures aside from the concert programme. Aspiring participants have until 28 February to apply for the junior category and until 2 March for classical and jazz categories.
The Stellenbosch International Piano Symposium has established itself as a premier musical event, having previously welcomed international debuts by pianists such as Antonio Pompa-Baldi and Emanuil Ivanov over its nine previous editions.
Visit https://www.stellenboschsymposium.com/ for more details.
Day pass packages and individual concert tickets are available through Webtickets.
You must be logged in to post a comment.