Mario Nell

Pianist

Mario is currently Associate-Professor and Chair of the Music Department at Stellenbosch University. He completed his undergraduate studies at the Universities of Port Elizabeth and Stellenbosch, later completing his Master’s degree at the University of Cape Town, and subsequently a PhD from the University of Stellenbosch. After his undergraduate studies he furthered his instrumental training at the Staatliche Hochschule für Musik in Freiburg (Germany), as well as pursuing a postgraduate performance diploma at the Zürich University for the Arts (Switzerland), where his focus was on historical performance practice.

Mario was awarded first prizes in all the major music competitions in South Africa, including the National Youth Music, ATKV Prelude and Forte, Mabel Quick Overseas, Oude Meester and Unisa Overseas Music Competitions. During his studies abroad he also distinguished himself in several important international competitions, including a first prize at the Calgary International Competition.

Since his debut with the SABC Orchestra in 1993, he has been a regular soloist with all the major orchestras in South Africa and given solo recitals in Germany, Switzerland, France, the Netherlands, Czech Republic, Italy, England, and South Korea, alongside his countless appearances in South Africa. Mario is also a very active and passionate teacher of both organ and piano. His students have gone on to have highly successful performing careers and have been the first prize winners at all the major music competitions in South Africa, as well as international competitions.

He is regularly invited to give masterclasses and workshops, and to serve as juror for music competitions and examinations. He was until recently the Chairperson of SAKOV (the South African Church and Concert Organists Society) and remains closely connected to its activities and initiatives.