Once again, the Waterfront is platforming the next generation of South African musicians with the High School Band Slam. Over two weeks, 15 local high school bands perform live at the V&A Amphitheatre for a chance to win up to R20 000, a R5000 Spirit award, over R25 000 worth of music equipment sponsored by Bothners, and a 2 full-day professional recording session worth R40 000 sponsored by SAE Institute for the winning school.

Starting from 6 May 2026, friends, fans and families are encouraged to show up to support their local bands, schools, and sounds. With schools from all across the Cape area, including Belhar High School and Curro Somerset West, band members are putting on for their local communities in an attempt to bring home the win.

This year’s prizes include a R20 000 cash reward, R25 000 in musical equipment sponsored by Bothners, and a 2 full-day professional recording session in a state-of-the-art studio featuring the renowned Neve Genesys console, with a dedicated SAE sound engineer, valued at R40,000 and sponsored by SAE Institute.

Selected schools are playing their half-hour sets on Wednesday through Friday evenings, from 6pm to 8pm. The finals take place on 15 May 2026, when the three finalist schools perform their final shows before it is left to the judges’ hands. The complete programme can be found on the website.

While the rewards for the winning school are important, the High School Band Slam is also about promoting the immense musical talent among the Mother City’s youth. Locals are encouraged to come support, sing, and dance along to the sound of the next generation of Cape Town musicians.

Cost: Free

When: 6 – 15 May 2026 | 6pm – 8pm
Where: V&A Amphitheatre, Dock Rd, Victoria & Alfred Waterfront

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