Student account exposes abuse in South African classical music

A student's personal account has brought attention to the presence of abuse and silence within South Africa's classical music culture. The individual, referred to as Charles, described a university music department that felt like a prison due to its restrictive environment. His experience involved navigating racial abuse in his residence alongside emotional abuse from a music teacher.

Charles, who was the first in his family to attend university, eventually dropped out of his music studies. He reported that his teacher frequently told him he was a failure despite his musical talent. He also noted that physical touch from his instructor, which is sometimes used for technical instruction, was used as a means to assert control. These combined traumas led to periods of self-harm and suicidal thoughts.

This case is part of research into how abusive behaviors persist within South African music institutions, including universities, orchestras, and choirs. The research suggests that the power held by teachers—who control professional networks and career opportunities—can facilitate manipulation and humiliation. There are also reports of male conductors and orchestral players forcing themselves onto women.

A 2024 report focused on women in the South African music scene found that nearly one third of those surveyed felt pressured into sexual relationships. Despite these issues and the global #MeToo movement, classical music institutions in South Africa have remained largely silent regarding these cultures of abuse.

The industry has historically maintained an ethos of political neutrality, focusing on universal beauty rather than addressing issues of race or colonialism. During apartheid, classical music was largely a white-dominated tradition. Black students could only study the genre at white universities under exceptional circumstances, and they were typically trained as teachers rather than concert performers.

Researchers argue that these historical structures continue to shape modern institutions. Addressing these abusive practices is seen as necessary to create safer environments for music education and professional performance in the country.