Aspiring musicians across South Africa have just 91 days left to register for the 42nd National Youth Music Competition (NYMC), where prize money totalling R180 000 is up for grabs.
The prestigious competition is open to classical instrumentalists between 14 and 19 years old, with a maximum of 25 participants set to be selected.
Entries close on Tuesday, June 23.
According to a statement sent by the NYMC, in addition to the cash prizes, contestants will compete for coveted gold, silver and bronze medals.
The 2026 edition of the NYMC will take place from Monday, November 30, to Saturday, December 5, at Endler Hall, located in the Konservatorium Building on Victoria Street in Stellenbosch.
NYMC co-ordinator Aileen Maas described the event as one of the most demanding in the country’s music calendar.
“This competition has been described as one of the most gruelling South African music competitions. It offers a springboard to young, talented musicians, as the contest aims to identify, expose, and develop teen stars,” she said.
Ms Maas said that the NYMC is unique in South Africa because finalists perform alongside the Cape Town Philharmonic Orchestra in the final round.
Participants from all provinces are invited to apply via the official NYMC website, where entry forms and competition rules are now available.
Competitors will perform across five categories: piano, strings, woodwind, brass, and other orchestral instruments, including harp and percussion. Over five days, entrants must present a varied repertoire spanning different musical periods, including South African works, said Ms Maas.
All contestants will perform in the opening rounds, after which 12 semi-finalists will be selected.
They will compete for a place in the final six, who will take to the stage at a gala concert on Saturday, December 5.