The SICMF makes a welcome return, running from 4 to 13 July at the Konservatorium building, with lovely evening concerts in the Endler Hall. Also look out for the student participants performing in a variety of chamber music ensembles daily in the Fismer Hall.
The concerts schedule features a star-studded lineup of internationally acclaimed artists in various combinations. We share some standout artists, essential evenings, and how to secure your seat.
Some of this years highlights include conductor Michael Repper leading the Festival Concert Orchestra with both classical staples and daring new works, Antony Hermus ,Principal Guest of the Belgian National Orchestra debuts at SICMF with powerful orchestral repertoire including Brahms and Ravel.
Masters of the Strings
- Daniel Rowland, the festival’s long‑time violin virtuoso, opens with Max Richter’s imaginative take on Vivaldi’s Four Seasons, promising a breathtaking blend of tradition and innovation.
- Andrey Baranov, a Queen Elisabeth Competition winner, returns to enchant with his lyrical tone and artistry.
- Maya Bogdanocić, whose recent recording of Saint‑Saëns’ Cello Concerto was hailed as “dazzling and unique,” will perform the work live with the Festival Concert Orchestra.
Conductor & Orchestra Highlights
- The evening concerts will be led by Michael Repper, a Grammy‑winning conductor known for energetic, fresh programs.
- Antony Hermus, making his South African debut, will conduct the Festival Symphony Orchestra in iconic works including Brahms’s First Symphony.
Wind & Brass Showcase
- Dwight Parry returns with the world premiere of Connesson’s new oboe concerto, originally unveiled with the Cincinnati Symphony.
- YaoGuang Zhai, principal clarinet of the Baltimore Symphony, brings jazz‑inflected flair with the Artie Shaw concerto.
- Bram van Sambeek, a bassoon virtuoso dubbed the “Paganini of the bassoon,” appears in a colorful Nino Rota concerto.
Fresh Faces & Cross‑Genre Fusion
- Kevin Harris, a Boston‑based jazz pianist, debuts RESONANCE—a powerful homage to Steve Biko fusing jazz and classical, set for 8 July.
- Matchstick Percussion, renowned for outreach and inclusivity, join the festival for a special recital plus student coaching.
Programme & Tickets
View the full evening programme, student concerts, and masterclass schedule click here.
Festival Passes and tickets are now available on Webtickets (R165–R230 per concert; pass includes all 10 concerts and additional events)
For more information, special packages and full programme at: www.sicmf.co.za