Stellenbosch: a celebration of 20 years of musical excellence

THE much-anticipated programme for the Stellenbosch International Chamber Music Festival (SICMF) 2025 has been unveiled, promising an exquisite blend of talent, artistry, and celebration of classical music.

- WEEKEND ARGUS REPORTER

From July 4 to 13, the Endler Hall will resonate with the sounds of both established composers and contemporary works, celebrating the festival's 20-year legacy.

Kicking off the festivities, a unique alumni orchestra composed of past SICMF participants will perform a special pre-festival concert on Thursday, July 3. This extraordinary ensemble, showcasing talents from the very first festival in 2004 to the present, will feature a programme highlighted by Mahler's powerful Fifth Symphony, a new piece by Matthijs van Dijk, and Gershwin's vibrant Concerto in F.

Young South African conductor Jacobus de Jager will lead this celebration, with Ian Watson, a distinguished participant and sought-after musician in the UK, taking on the role of concertmaster. Joining them will be piano soloist Leo Gevisser, a Juilliard School graduate and former student of festival Artistic Director, Nina Schumann.