One Saheti School learner performed at the National Youth Music Competition and did exceptionally well.

Saheti School pianist and Grade 12 learner Yu Qing Peng competed in the prestigious music competition, held over a week at Stellenbosch University and culminating in a final performance with the Cape Town Philharmonic Orchestra, on December 6, 2025.

Selected as one of only six finalists nationwide, Yu Qing was awarded the silver medal, shared the piano category prize, and received the award for best performance of a South African work for his outstanding rendition of From the Poets (Impundulu) by Peter Klatzow.

Yu Qing revealed, “In the weeks before the competition, I focused on mastering my musical expression in all my pieces.

ALSO READ: Five sets of twins join Saheti School for Grade 1

Preparation was all about consistency, and I tried to work in a way that allowed my level of playing to reach its peak on the day of the performance – neither sooner nor later.

“I worked carefully on refining my musical interpretations and precision so that I could feel confident in communicating the character of the different pieces of music.”

The pianist admitted that balancing music with academics required discipline. He said he tried to make the most of the two to two-and-a-half hours of practice time he had, which meant putting his utmost effort into each session.

Especially during exams, which took place right before the competition, music was a source of relaxation and enjoyment.

So, even though the competition was the final destination, Yu Qing saw the journey toward it as the more important and fulfilling part.

“My journey with the piano began when I was six years old. I started by figuring out small tunes on a keyboard my mother had bought me, simply out of curiosity.

ALSO READ: Blood donors urged to support SANBS at Saheti School drive

“Over time, formal lessons shaped that curiosity into discipline. My teacher since the beginning of my endeavour, Dr Olga Tsikhelashvili, has guided me not only technically, but also musically and artistically,” said Yu Qing.

During the Covid-19 pandemic, Yu Qing felt confined in his musical development as they had to transition to online lessons.

After that period, he was able to return to his usual standards. Professor Mario Nell from Stellenbosch University has also played an extremely influential role in shaping Yu Qing’s musical expression in recent years.

The pianist acknowledged Saheti School for its very supportive role in his musical development. He said the school understands the demands of high-level performance and has always encouraged him to pursue excellence both academically and artistically.

“Their recognition of music as an important part of my education has allowed me to grow with confidence,” said Yu Qing.

“This achievement means a lot to me. It represents years of dedication and learning from both success and disappointment.

“For my parents, it has been a shared journey. They have always supported me in pursuing my endeavours.

“For my teachers, I see it as a reflection of their guidance and belief in me. I am deeply grateful to everyone who has played a role in helping me reach this point,” he said.

He added that this is definitely not an endpoint, and he will continue to hone his musical artistry, as he knows that one can never stop learning and growing in any aspect of life.