Choral Competition prize pot climbs to E410 000

The Standard Bank Choral Music Competition is hitting higher notes this year after securing a massive E410 000 total sponsorship ahead of the highly anticipated showcase set for May 24, 2026.

With corporate giants and local brands continuing to pour money into the country’s growing choral scene, this year’s edition is shaping up to be one of the biggest yet.

The latest boost came from Imisebe Publishing, which contributed E55 000 towards the Imisebe Choice Piece category.

The sponsorship marks an increase of E5 000 from last year’s contribution, adding more excitement to an already growing event.

The competition had earlier received E355 000 from Standard Bank, while Liberty Life and STANLIB also came on board with a combined sponsorship of E50 000.

Together, the contributions have pushed the competition’s total sponsorship to E410 000.

The event will take place at Esibayeni Lodge and is expected to attract choirs from across the country for a full day of music, harmonies and fierce vocal performances.

What is making this year’s competition stand out is not only the money involved, but the level of support coming from companies investing in local talent and culture.

Speaking during the sponsorship announcement, Head of Sales, Distribution and Marketing at Standard Bank Insurance and Asset Management Africa Regions, Sameer Modan, said the sponsorship goes beyond finances.

“This contribution is not just financial support, it is a powerful statement of belief in the arts, in culture and in the voices that uplift our communities,” he said.

Managing Director at Liberty Life Eswatini, Mangaliso Shabangu, said the company’s involvement reflects its commitment to supporting the nation and young talent.

“Our purpose here at Liberty is simple yet deeply personal, we are In it with you. This is a commitment to walk alongside the people in our nation and in platforms such as these that bring people together and shape talent, especially in our youth,” he said.

The Eswatini National Choral Music Association also welcomed the support, saying the sponsorship proves that the companies are fully behind the growth of local choral music.

“We are very much grateful for this generous sponsorship. Indeed you live up to your drive of In It With You. We surely are a living testament that indeed you are with us,” the association said.

Meanwhile, The Imisebe Choice Piece category is expected to be one of the major highlights during the competition.

The category gives choirs a chance to showcase creativity, vocal strength and interpretation through selected pieces.

Over the years, the Standard Bank Choral Music Competition has grown into one of the country’s biggest music platforms, attracting talented choirs, passionate supporters and strong competition between schools, churches and community groups.

This year’s growing sponsorship numbers are also showing how seriously companies are beginning to take the arts industry and its impact on young people and local communities.

For many choirs, the competition is more than just a performance. It is a chance to gain recognition, build confidence and represent their communities on a national stage.

With just days left before the big event, anticipation continues to build as choirs prepare to battle it out in front of judges and choral music lovers.

From powerful harmonies to emotional performances and colourful stage moments, music fans can expect a packed showcase when the curtains finally open on May 24.

With days left before the competition, choirs from across the country are expected to gather at Esibayeni Lodge for what has become one of Eswatini’s biggest choral music events.