Classical music deserves more recognition and that is exactly what the ATKV pursues with its Muziq and Muziqanto competitions. The final ended on a high note on Saturday evening (8 September) at the Hugo
Lambrechts Music Centre in Parow, Cape Town. Muziq (for young adult instrumentalists) and Muziqanto (for young adult vocalists) were judged simultaneously. Out of the seven competitors in each competition, three were chosen in the second round on Friday to perform Saturday evening alongside the Cape Town Festival Orchestra, under the baton of maestro Richard Cock.
“We are very fortunate at the ATKV to have a board of directors who are passionate about classical music,” says Gerrie Lemmer, chief executive: culture at the ATKV.
“We searched high and low for the best artists in the country and tonight they showed what they are made of.”
The winners in each competition walked away with a cash prize of R70 000, while the second-placed performers received R35 000 and R20 000 was given to third place.
The 21-year-old Cameron Williams claimed first place in the Muziq competition. The saxophonist’s agile fingers and long breath ensured that the crowd and the judges were in awe of this youngster’s talent.
“I’m absolutely elated. I grew up admiring the participants and winners of this competition and to be a winner myself is absolutely amazing,” Cameron said.
Brian Bae (piano) was second and Paul Loeb van Zuilenburg (violin) third.
The baritone Bongani Kubheka (27) won first prize in Muziqanto.
“It’s an amazing feeling. It was a very tough competition. Really happy to have taken the first place,” he said.
Luvoyo Mbundu came in second and Segomotso Shupinyaneng third.
The national Afrikaans radio station RSG was the media partner of ATKV Muziq and ATKV Muziqanto.