Birchleigh Field Band shines at Field Band Foundation’s 25th national championships

Bands, friends, and family created a remarkable atmosphere at DP World Wanderers Stadium on 11 October, as the Field Band Foundation hosted its 25th Annual National Championships.

Ten bands from across the country gathered to showcase their talent and vie for the coveted title of national champions. Kempton Park’s own Hoërskool Birchleigh and Con Amore School shone brightly as they joined forces to represent the Birchleigh Field Band at the prestigious event.

Each of the ten bands performed a 12-minute themed routine, blending musical excellence with powerful storytelling.

The event opened with a breathtaking rendition of the national anthem, symbolising unity and South African pride. Musicians wore the colours of the national flag, forming the flag itself during the anthem’s performance.

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Field Band Foundation CEO, Ushama Ross Jerrier, said the Championships highlight not only musical talent but also the leadership potential of the young performers.

“These Championships remind us of the transformative power of music. It builds confidence, connection, and hope. Our young people are not only performers; they are leaders in the making,” said Ross Jerrier.

This year also marked the debut of the Mandini Field Band, which joined the programme only a few months ago. Despite limited preparation time, they impressed both the crowd and judges, earning admiration and several awards.

Springs Field Band, last year’s champions, delivered another outstanding performance that raised the bar for competitors.

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Emotions ran high as each band gave their all, aiming for the coveted 2025 Bertie & Ronnie National Champions Trophy.

Birchleigh Field Band tutor-in-training, Lesedi Peete, admitted to feeling nervous before their performance but said the experience was unforgettable.“Field Band has been such a wonderful experience, from the rehearsals to the drum solos — everything was amazing. Performing was stressful at first; we were nervous and even cried a little. But once we got onto that field, we just sparked.

“Everything went according to plan. Yes, there were small mistakes, but overall, it was amazing. We left that field full of confidence and joy,” said Peete.

Each band performed twice: a main 12-minute performance and a five-minute Sport Squad performance. Nine main awards were up for grabs, each with gold, silver, and bronze placements, alongside a separate award for the Sport Squad category.

Birchleigh Field Band proudly took home two main awards: second place in the Best Marching Percussion category (shared with Setlabotja and Springs Field Bands) and second place in the Sport Squad category (shared with Alexandra Field Band). They also earned the Steering Committee of the Year Award.

Springs Field Band project officer, Vuyani Mukandi, said he was surprised by their results given the high level of competition.

“I didn’t expect to win so many awards, especially after seeing how tough the competition was this year.

“It really showed how much heart and hard work our band put in. Last year we didn’t have the pressure of defending the title, but this time it was on our shoulders. Instead of letting that pressure weigh us down, we used it as motivation to push harder,” said Mukandi.

Springs Field Band was crowned the 2025 National Champion, taking home the prestigious Ronnie and Bertie Lubner Award for Best Band for the second consecutive year. Their vibrant performance captured the spirit of belonging, discipline, and creativity that defines the Field Band Foundation.

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Springs Field Band and Alexandra Field Band stood out as the top achievers, each winning more than five awards. Springs topped the list with seven awards, followed closely by Alexandra with six.

Mandini Field Band, despite being newcomers, took third place in the Best Overall Visual/Show Design category and won first place in the People’s Choice Award. Their project officer, Godfrey Molele, formerly of Birchleigh Field Band, also received the Chairperson’s Award.