Music for All both encapsulates the goal of Frank Pietersen Music Centre as well as the variety of music showcased at this concert. Learners from all walks of life coming together to create music for all – from Western Classical to Cape Goema, this concert is sure to get you dancing to the music of the soundtrack of your life.

This concert will showcase the Junior and Intermediate String Ensembles of the Music Centre. Each Ensemble will perform on its own as well as joining as a combined String Orchestra at the end.

The music will be fun and enjoyable for everyone attending. To add to the String Ensembles, our percussion teacher Annemie Nel has written percussion parts tailor-made for each specific percussion learner, adding that extra spice to our menu.

Our concert will open with the Junior Strings, a group of 20 members of all ages who are late beginners as well as very young beginners, all having fun together.

The Intermediate Strings are a very vibrant ensemble of 28 players. Their repertoire with its energetic rhythms and interesting harmonies is enjoyable to listen to and will remind many a concert attendee of bygone times.

To end off the concert all the string players will combine in the 53+ member String Orchestra, performing three South African Medleys, and will have everyone walking out with a smile on their face and a melody in their heart.

About the Frank Pietersen Music Centre – 56 Years of Musical Excellence

For over five decades, the Frank Pietersen Music Centre (FPMC) has been a beacon of musical creativity and learning in the Cape Winelands. What began as a small community initiative in 1970 has grown into a thriving institution that continues to nurture musical talent across all backgrounds and ages.

A major breakthrough came in 1992 when the Department of Arts and Culture provided funding for woodwind, brass, and string instruments, allowing the Centre to expand into full orchestral training. When Athlone Teachers’ College closed in 1993, FPMC found a permanent home in the college building, where it continues to operate today.

On April 1, 1994, the Frank Pietersen Music Centre officially became a state institution with Vaughan Pietersen as principal. This marked the beginning of unprecedented growth and development.

Over the past three decades, we’ve expanded our programs, added specialized departments, and welcomed talented educators to our team. Our students regularly excel in external examinations, competitions, and festivals, while some have even participated in international exchange programs.

At the end of September 2024, Vaughan Pietersen retired after leading the Music Centre for 35 years and Hendrik Marais was appointed as the new Head of Frank Pietersen Music Centre.