Jonathan Pretorius, OG ’25, was again principal cellist for the Eastern Cape Philharmonic Youth Orchestra in 2026.

This year the orchestra was conducted by maestro Eddie Clayton, one of South Africa’s most sought after conductors, especially among the young, upcoming musicians. After taking a year to refine aspects of his cello playing, further prepare him for university and try to raise funds for his first year of studies, he is excited to turn the page to a new, exciting chapter.

Jonathan has been accepted to study towards a Bachelors degree in Zoology and Environmental Science at Rhodes university in 2027. He will be including Instrumental Music Studies at the Department of Music and Musicology as one of his subject. Rhodes University is the only tertiary institution in the country that offers this unique opportunity. This means that Jono will be able to continue his holistic education from Graeme into his tertiary environment.