The Stellenbosch University Choir has once again made South Africa proud, clinching three gold medals at the 2025 Interkultur European Choir Games and Grand Prix of Nations in Aarhus, Denmark. Competing against 132 choirs from 33 countries, SU’s choir was the only African representative and walked away with top scores in Adult Choirs, Jazz, Pop & Show, and Musica Sacra a Cappella categories.
André van der Merwe, who has led the choir since 2003, expressed his pride in the students’ dedication, “They sing in the choir for the love of singing. Our marks of above 95% for all three categories are an incredible compliment at an international level. I am such a proud choir master.”
Choir committee chairperson Talyah Greyling, a Master’s student in Actuarial Science, highlighted the personal growth and unity forged on tour:``
“Our slogan is ‘a family of voices’, and during this competition week we had the opportunity to live together, eat together, adventure together and get to know a whole new country and culture together.”
Listen to their top-level performance of Coldplay's 'Fix You' in Aarhus, Denmark:
Now’s the perfect time to explore the choir’s hometown of Stellenbosch, also described as South Africa's food capital by renowned chef Bertus Basson.
Wine Town Stellenbosch returns from 26 July to 3 August 2025, bringing with it nine days of tastings, cellar tours, winemaker dinners and workshops - all leading up to the headline Stellenbosch Wine Festival on 1 & 2 August at the Town Hall.
It's a celebration of South Africa's wine heritage with 50+ top producers (including first-timers like De Meye and Hidden Valley), over 200 wines, live music, and a lavish Graze Table curated by Basson's team.
- Stellenbosch Town Hall
- Fri, 1 August (17:00–21:00) & Sat, 2 August (14:00–18:00)
- R550 online | R600 at the door
- Includes tastings, Graze Table access, and live entertainment
- Book via Plankton
Ready for a taste adventure? Try our guide to the 11 Best Affordable Restaurants in the Winelands