Young musicians to compete in national competition

Five young musicians from the Tabletalk’s distribution area have been selected to participate in the 36th annual Hubert van der Spuy National Music Competition, taking place at Stellenbosch University’s Endler Hall from Tuesday, September 30 to Saturday, October 4.

Returning for the third time this year is 12-year-old cellist Jehoshua van Zyl, and pianist April Siqi Lin, 12, of Sunningdale, and flautist Cathy Gravell, competing for the second time.

Two first-time entrants join them this year - Jehoshua’s 10-year-old brother, Azariah, who plays the violin, and 10-year-old pianist Alexia Zhao from Edgemead.

The competition, presented by the Tygerberg branch of the South African Society of Music Teachers (SASMT), has become one of the most prestigious contests of its kind in South Africa and Namibia. 

Open to children 13 years and younger, it offers participants a chance to compete at a national level, with over R100 000 in cash prizes at stake.

This year marks the second year of partnership with Stellenbosch University’s Department of Music.

Professor Mario Nell said the collaboration was an investment in the future of South African music and a commitment to excellence and inclusivity in the arts.

SASMT Tygerberg chairperson Hilda Boonzaaier said the standard of auditions promises an exceptional competition. 

“We exhort our candidates to work hard for this very special event,” she said.

The final round will be live-streamed on Saturday, October 4.

 Tickets to attend the performances at Endler Hall are available through Webtickets.