South African classical music talent is headed for the global stage. Mathew Draai, a brilliant fourth-year Bachelor of Music (BMus) student at Nelson Mandela University, has officially been selected to perform at the prestigious British Isles Music Festival (BIMF) in the United Kingdom this July.
Running from 14 to 22 July 2026, the elite festival brings together a highly vetted cohort of emerging virtuosos from over 25 countries for an intense masterclass, coaching, and live performance schedule alongside internationally acclaimed classical artists.
The Audition and The Master Setlist
Mathew clinched his coveted international spot—complete with a prestigious festival bursary—following a powerhouse audition recording of Rachmaninoff’s Prelude in G minor, Op. 23, No. 5. Under the expert guidance of NMU lecturer Kobus Buys, Mathew refined his technique to stand out among global applicants.
For the UK audiences, Mathew has curated a deeply contrasting, technically demanding repertoire that showcases both his solo emotional depth and collaborative chamber music instincts:
- Solo Performance: Chopin’s soaring and lyrical Ballade No. 3
- Duet Collaboration: Schumann’s expressive Three Fantasy Pieces for Piano and Clarinet, Op. 73
- Trio Collaboration: Shostakovich’s intensely rhythmic and witty Piano Trio No. 1
“Nelson Mandela University has a vibrant, deeply dedicated Department of Music and Performing Arts. Taking that name to the UK is a chance to showcase the level of artistry and training emerging from South Africa and the Eastern Cape. I want to show that our musicians can stand shoulder to shoulder with young artists from anywhere in the world.” — Mathew Draai
A Balancing Act of Academic Excellence
Mathew’s journey to the UK highlights the elite work ethic driving NMU’s Faculty of Humanities. To get on the plane, the young pianist has had to strategically balance an exhausting, multi-hour daily practice schedule alongside the completion of two major academic milestones:
- An original musical composition.
- His fourth-year undergraduate research treatise.
The global exposure doesn’t stop with Mathew, either. Dr. Rudi Bower, Head of the Department of Music and Performing Arts, confirmed that four additional NMU music students have been selected for the prestigious upcoming Stellenbosch International Chamber Music Festival, solidifying the university’s reputation as a top-tier launchpad for international musical careers.
