St Mary’s Singers

St Mary’s Singers – South Africa

International Choir Festival in Provence 2025

The St Mary’s Singers is the auditioned Anglican High School Female Choir of St Mary’s Diocesan School for Girls in Pretoria, South Africa. Comprising talented young women aged 14 to 18, the choir is renowned for its dynamic performances and exceptional vocal talent. As part of one of South Africa’s leading Anglican schools, the St Mary’s Singers are not only an integral part of the school community, but also active representatives of both South Africa and the African continent in the global choral scene.

The choir is known for its vibrant and passionate approach to music, which is reflected in their unique performances. Their love for music is evident in every note they sing, whether performing locally in festivals across South Africa or competing in prestigious choral competitions at both national and international levels. Their performances are a true celebration of the beauty and power of music, making them ambassadors of South African culture and African artistry.

Over the years, the St Mary’s Singers have consistently excelled in national competitions and have been awarded Gold in multiple categories. They have showcased their talents at major festivals such as the ATKV National Competition (held in Pretoria and Cape Town) and the Cantamus Festival in George, South Africa, where they have stood out as one of the country’s top youth choirs.

Internationally, the choir has made notable strides in representing South Africa on the world stage. They have toured to Italy and Thailand, where they earned Gold Medals, received Certificates as Category Winners, and secured Overall 1st Prizes. These achievements underscore their commitment to excellence, musicality, and cultural diplomacy through the universal language of music.

The St Mary’s Singers are led by Lhente-Mari Pitout, an accomplished South African musician and the Artistic Director of several other choirs in Pretoria. Under her expert guidance, the choir continues to reach new heights in performance and competition, inspiring both their audiences and fellow musicians.

In every performance, the St Mary’s Singers bring a sense of joy, enthusiasm, and dedication to their craft. Their music is not only a reflection of their skills and passion but also a powerful testament to the talent and potential of young South African artists on the international stage.

The St Mary’s Singers continue to be a shining example of the exceptional quality of youth choral music in South Africa, and their future looks bright as they continue to inspire, compete, and represent their heritage with pride.

Lhente-Mari Pitout, Conductor

Lhente-Mari Pitout, an acclaimed musician and music educator, has dedicated her life to promoting the rich traditions of the South African choral field. As a conductor, musician, and adjudicator in both classical and contemporary genres, she has gained a reputation as one of the most highly esteemed female educators and choral conductors in South Africa.

With a passion for music education, Lhente has worked tirelessly to promote the development of the arts in South Africa. Her commitment to the performing arts has earned her numerous awards, including recognition as a singer and conductor. Several organizations have awarded her prizes for her contributions to the arts.

Lhente’s reputation as a choral clinician and adjudicator has taken her to Europe and North America, where she has conducted at national and international festivals. Singers and conductors worldwide respect her as a choral expert, and she has shared her expertise with them.

Lhente has conducted the UP Youth Choir since 2005, and she is also the conductor of the highly prestigious and award-winning Pretoria Boys High School Choir and the St Mary’s Singers. She has co-founded the South African Youth Music and Arts Development Foundation, which seeks to empower young people through music education and other artistic endeavors.

Renowned conductors from across the globe recognized Lhente’s passion for music and talent as a musician at a young age when she had the opportunity to work and sing with them. These experiences shaped her into the accomplished educator and conductor she is today.

During her six years representing South Africa in the World Youth Choir and World Chamber Choir, Lhente toured and performed in over 15 countries. She worked with conductors such as Frieder Bernius, Tonu Kaljuste, Kåre Hanken, Robert Sund, María Guinand, André Thomas, Paul Smith, Anton Armstrong, Philippe Eskerei, Peter Erdei, Gary Graden, Steve Zegree, Michelle Weir, Roberto Gini, Peter Deijkstra, Volker Hempfling, Nobuaki Tanaka, and Bobby McFarrin.

Lhente has served on numerous boards, including the World Youth Choir, and she acts as a representative of UNESCO with the title Ambassador of Good Will, World Chamber Choir.

Through her work as an educator, conductor, and ambassador, Lhente has inspired countless students, singers, and artists to express themselves and realize their dreams through the performing arts. Her contributions to the South African choral field and the arts community at large have made her a respected and beloved figure in the world of music.

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