The College has produced some of South Africa’s most successful and internationally recognised artists and ensembles. Alumni include globally celebrated opera singers such as Pretty Yende, Pumeza Matshikza, Filipa van Eck, Sarah-Jane Brandon, Musa Ngqungwana, Levy Sekgapane  and Golda Schultz, as well as leading figures in jazz like Mandisi Dyantyis, Judith Sephuma, Manana, and producers like Vumaala. The College’s reach also extends to international stages, with alumni such as Sandile Gontsana currently performing in The Lion King in London’s West End. Pianist James Baillieu is now Professor of Piano Accompaniment and Vocal Repertoire at the Royal Academy of Music in London, and is in demand as a performer around Europe, Asia and the USA. Popular bands such as GoldFish and Beatenberg also emerged from this vibrant community.

Closer to home, SACM alumni play a central role in shaping South Africa’s creative economy. Many have founded and lead successful enterprises across the entertainment, recording, and commercial sectors, contributing to a thriving industry that offers substantial opportunities for work and collaboration.

Whether your ambition is to become a leading performer, an innovative creator, or a successful industry professional, the College provides the skills, networks, and platform to build a meaningful and sustainable career in music and beyond.

Mikhaila Alyssa Smith

Making my noise in New York

SACM alumna Mikhaila Alyssa Smith is making waves in New York, having won a film scoring competition and having work premiered by the NYU Orchestra.
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