1. The protocol for the organisation, management, co-ordination and monitoring of school music competitions and/or festivals for public schools in South Africa was published in Government Notice No. 21697. All school music competitions and festivals must be organised in accordance with this protocol. Its scope and objectives are stated in the above-mentioned Government Notice.

2. In order to implement the protocol, a provincial steering committee will be established to organise and manage provincial music projects based on the protocol. This committee will consist of representatives of teachers' unions and recognised music associations and interest groups that organise music competitions and festivals for primary and secondary schools.

3. Four national projects have been identified for the implementation of the protocol:

  1. The annual national Tirisano Schools' Choral Eisteddfod, which is a joint venture between the national Department of Education and First National Bank;

  2. The annual national choral festival for primary and secondary schools;

  3. Annual competitions and festivals for instrumental music;

  4. Research and development programmes in music education.

4. Schools will be given details of the Tirisano Schools' Choral Eisteddfod as soon as possible. The list of prescribed works and the rules of the Eisteddfod can be found on the WCED's website.

5. EMDC eliminations will be held during April and May 2003 and it is envisaged that the provincial finals will be held from 29 May to 1 June 2003. The winning choirs will represent the province at the national championships from 10 to 13 July 2003.

6. All schools are strongly encouraged to participate in this Eisteddfod.

7. A copy of the protocol is enclosed. Principals are requested to bring the contents of this letter and the protocol to the attention of all concerned.


SIGNED: C.J. FOURIE
HEAD: EDUCATION
DATE: 2003:02:28

Protocol document  (size: 32 KB)