Seatavern

Cape Town Camerata, formerly Cape Town Youth Choir, has evolved into a premier 32-voice a capella ensemble based in the heart of the city centre, aiming to "spark joy" for both singers and their audiences. Their repertoire spans sacred and classical pieces to vibrant African music, showcasing their versatality and commitment to delivering moving musical experiences. The choir was recently crowned as the Grand Prix winners at the "World Choral Grand Prix" in Spain October 2024 - an achievement that the choir is very proud to add to their list of accolades. Some of the choir's other recent accolades include: Best performance of a contemporary work and the Publikumspreis at the ICCC in Spittal and der Drau (2019) Grand Prix Competition winners at the International Choir Festival in Karpenissi, Greece(2019) Placing second in the mixed voice category at the 2022 Marktoberdorf International Chamber Choir Competition. The Conductor: Leon Starker is a dynamic choral conductor and educator with over three decades of experience leading choirs to national and international acclaim. He holds a B.Sc. in Chemistry and Mathematics, a Higher Education Diploma from Stellenbosch University, and advanced qualifications in Choral Conducting—including an M.Mus.—from Nelson Mandela University, where he studied under renowned composer-conductor duo Péter-Louis and Junita van Dijk. Since 2003, Leon has served as conductor of the Cape Town Camerata, guiding the ensemble through celebrated performances of a cappella works and large-scale masterpieces such as Rachmaninov’s Vespers, Handel’s Messiah, and Karl Jenkins’ Armed Man. Under his leadership, the choir has performed globally—from Carnegie Hall to Salzburg—and earned top prizes at elite competitions in Austria, China, and Germany. Leon served as Artistic Director of the Mzansi Conductor’s Convention (2023–2025) and formerly lectured in choral conducting at the University of Cape Town College of Music. A sought-after adjudicator and clinician, he brings precision and passion to every podium. When he’s not conducting, Leon works as a database developer and programmer. He lives in Cape Town with his wife Louise and their three daughters.