Gala Concert 2026
The flagship event of the year. A grand celebration of our 2026 journey, featuring our most complex and moving arrangements.
Cantus Festival 5
Join the UP Youth Choir for Cantus Festival 5, an inspiring evening of choral excellence featuring performances by Afrikaanse Hoër Meisieskool, Pretoria Boys High School & Pretoria High School for Girls. Enjoy an evening of vibrant harmonies and outstanding young voices, with food stalls available for a relaxed and welcoming concert experience.
Cantus Times #3
The latest issue of Cantus Times captures the heart and harmony of the UP Youth Choir. From celebrating the brain-boosting benefits of singing to reflecting on UPYC’s role in the global peace documentary End War or Build Peace?, this edition reminds us that music truly connects people across borders.
Inside, you’ll find heartfelt reflections from our members—stories of kindness, friendship, and resilience, and personal tributes like “The Castle in My Heart”, a poetic love letter to what UPYC means to so many. As we look ahead to the 2026 choir auditions, our singers reflect on gratitude for the memories made and excitement for the journeys yet to come.
UPYC continues to stand as more than a choir—it’s a family, a voice for hope, and a reminder that through music, we rise together.
Cantus Times #2
In this powerful second issue of Cantus Times, the UP Youth Choir community shares stories of resilience, growth, and the transformative power of music. From heartfelt reflections on family and home, to triumphant member achievements and emotional concert experiences, each piece captures the soul of UPYC. You’ll meet young fundraisers, passionate performers, and read raw, personal journeys that remind us all why choir is more than just music—it’s a family. With love, harmony, and honesty, this issue is a celebration of unity and voice.
Cantus Times #1
In this exciting first issue of Cantus Times, we celebrate the voices, stories, and spirit of the UP Youth Choir. From a magical Soirée night to conductor Lhente-Marie Pitout’s 20-year legacy, this newsletter captures the heartbeat of our community. Read heartfelt reflections from new members, meet the 2025 committee, and discover the passion that fuels our journey — one note at a time.
Ontiretse Magadzi
Ontiretse Magadzi (also known as Onti) is a film student, content creator, and the current Social Media Manager for UPYC. A member since 2021, Onti quickly found a home in the choir, eventually serving as deputy head boy and later leading its digital presence. His creative energy and consistency have grown UPYC’s online platforms, helping to share its message with the world—one voice at a time.
Herman Piek
Herman Piek joined UPYC as a singer in 2016, touring internationally and building lasting memories through music. In 2019, he transitioned into a management internship, ensuring new members had the same enriching experiences he did. Now serving as Manager and Graphic Designer, Herman continues to give back to the choir that shaped his personal and professional journey.
Sophia Booysen
Sophia Booysen is a passionate advocate for youth development through music. Through her work with UPYC, she has seen young singers grow into confident individuals, gaining both musical and life skills. Sophia supports community-driven initiatives like UPYC’s beaded product project, which empowers local artists and connects diverse communities. Her mission: changing the world, one voice at a time.
Herman Swanepoel
Herman Swanepoel has been part of the UP Youth Choir community for over 12 years, evolving from singer to Assistant Conductor since 2009. A passionate music educator and arranger, he currently conducts six choirs known for his acclaimed African music arrangements performed internationally. Herman is dedicated to youth development through music, organizing workshops and masterclasses that inspire and empower the next generation of musicians.
Lhente-Mari Pitout
Lhente-Mari Pitout is an acclaimed South African conductor, educator, and choral clinician. She has led the UP Youth Choir since 2005 and also conducts the award-winning Pretoria Boys High School Choir and St Mary’s Singers. Internationally recognized, she has toured with the World Youth Choir, worked with renowned conductors, and served as a UNESCO Goodwill Ambassador. A passionate advocate for youth development, she co-founded the South African Youth Music and Arts Development Foundation.