about us

Pretoria Eisteddfod celebrated 100 years of existence in 2023 and is one of the largest Eisteddfods of its kind in the country. It was originally known as the Pretoria Music Festival and in 1993 it was expanded to also include Drama and Fine Arts. The online participation in Fine Arts now also provides the opportunity for nationwide participation.

The Eisteddfod is an important event on Pretoria’s arts and culture program and is offered by the Pretoria centre of the South African Society of Music Teachers (SASMT).

Schools, organizations and individuals are invited to affiliate and participate annually. Participants have the opportunity to perform in solo, as well as group items, such as duo’s, ensembles, orchestras, choirs, etc.  Each participant/group receives a certificate as well as constructive comments from adjudicators who are all specialists in their respective fields. Participation is usually in a festive, rather than a competitive mood.

Trophies are awarded to the winners in the respective categories and the best achievers (overall winners) of a section also receive a money prize sponsored by Pretoria Eisteddfod and the SASMT.

Our mission is to serve the greater Pretoria and surrounding areas by providing a podium for performance in a wide variety of art forms, to inspire participants to achieve the highest possible standard and to promote their love for the arts and the cultivation of all art forms.

The Eisteddfod is a non-profit organization and therefore relies on entry fees, contributions of lovers and supporters of the arts, as well as the service of voluntary organisers.