Leading cellular network operator, Vodacom, has boosted the Ninth UNISA International Piano Competition with a sponsorship of R2,1m - the largest ever in the history of the competition. The international piano "grand prix" will showcase the talent of 32 young world-class pianists representing 18 countries. Selected from 165 entrants, competitors include three of South Africa's best young talents – Durban’s Jonathan Oshry as well as Jeanne-Minette Cilliers and Mark Nixon. The competition opens on January 20 with a recital by Irish pianist and juror, John O'Conor and runs until February 5. Competitors will conduct workshops for budding pianists at centres such as the African Cultural Organisation of South Africa (ACOSA) in Soweto and the Heritage Music School in Pretoria.

"The UNISA International Music Competitions are held every two years and have helped launch the careers of famous young performers such as American soprano Kathleen Casello (Three Sopranos), South African tenor Johann Botha, Canadian pianist Marc-Andre Hamelin and many more.

Performances are being held at UNISA in the Old Mutual Hall, with the last leg of the final round on February 4 and 5 taking place at the State Theatre in Pretoria. School students in uniform will gain free entrance. Tickets for the preliminary rounds will be available at the door and final night tickets from Computicket. More details from Joan Joffe, Group Executive - Corporate Affairs Vodacom Group on (011) 653-5885 or 082 990-0007