Hitting the perfect note, a record 46 young South African pianists competing at this year’s annual Atterbury National Piano Competition all excelled at the event which took place at the Atterbury Theatre, Pretoria, recently, with its main sponsor being the Atterbury Trust.

This year, the hotly-contested competition was adjudicated by Prof Malcolm Nay, Mr John Roos, Prof Joseph Stanford and Bernarda Vorster. It took place in three rounds and then culminated in a final round comprising nine extraordinarily talented young pianists who competed against each other to decide the winners.

The overall winner of the competition and winner of the Hennie Joubert Prize, Louis Nel of Pretoria, delighted judges to be awarded with first place and a cash prize of R35,000. His tremendous talent and dedication saw him taking top honours this year, after coming third overall last year.

Second place was earned by Rachel Wedderburn-Maxwell of Durban. Third place went to Beate Boshoff from Bethlehem, who was last year’s winner of the 15 years and younger category.

There were also three age category winners chosen: Tumi Phaho of Johannesburg for 12 years and younger, Rachel Wedderburn-Maxwell for 15 years and younger and Louis Nel for 19 years and younger.

In addition, special prizes were awarded to the best pieces in different styles. Louis Nel once again won for the best Baroque piece as well as the best romantic and best modern pieces. Benjamin Valkin won for the best classical work. Beate Boshoff won for the best South African piece.

Thanks to the generosity of the competition’s main sponsor, Atterbury Trust, a total of R115,000 in prizes were given to the winning pianists.

Zahn Hulme, Executive Trustee of Atterbury Trust, says: “The young talent showcased at the competition was truly exceptional and inspirational. It was a real celebration of the most accomplished young pianists in the country. We congratulate each and every participant and encourage them to continue to shine on their musical journeys. We believe that talent should be developed and Atterbury Trust is thrilled to recognise, encourage and support musical excellence in South Africa’s youth.”

The Atterbury National Piano Competition is the only competition in South Africa presented every year for young pianists aged 19 years and younger.