Selborne Primary School’s music department is striking a powerful chord, proving that the school’s reputation extends far beyond the sports field.
With a team of highly qualified, passionate and accomplished teachers, Selborne continues to offer a holistic education in which music plays a vital role in shaping confident, disciplined and well-rounded young boys.
At the heart of the department is Germaine Gamiet, head of department, senior choir director and piano teacher.
Born in East London, Gamiet holds a B.Mus degree from the University of Cape Town and a master’s from the University of Oregon.
His experience spans school, community and international productions, including performances at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival.
At Selborne, he directs the senior choir and teaches piano, drawing inspiration from the boys’ curiosity and enthusiasm.
He told the Go! he believes music education is a privilege that helps mould the next generation of leaders.
Kristy Ward, who teaches woodwind, wind band and foundation phase singing, grew up in a musical family and began playing the saxophone at a tender age.
Ward completed a diploma in music at the University of the Free State, graduating cum laude, and was awarded first place in the 2011 Old Mutual Solo Competition on saxophone.
With 13 years of teaching experience, Ward also teaches class music to grades 1–3 and conducts the school band.
She describes teaching at Selborne as: “deeply rewarding” noting that music builds confidence, discipline, teamwork and self-expression that extend far beyond the classroom.
Selborne’s percussion and rhythm comes alive under Geoff Lottering, who teaches drums, marimba, percussion and creative arts.
Lottering has been playing drums since the age of six and holds a B.Mus honours degree from the University of Fort Hare, where he studied under renowned jazz musician Dr Nduduzo Makhathini.
As an accomplished performer, he has collaborated with leading SA jazz musicians and is a member of the Buffalo City Big Band and the DEVO Chamber Orchestra.
At Selborne, he thrives on the boys’ infectious energy and their ability to excel across multiple disciplines.
Adding further depth to the department is Jaylin Cupido, who teaches brass instruments and directs the foundation phase choir.
Cupido completed his B.Mus honours degree and PGCE at Stellenbosch University and has performed in numerous university ensembles, toured internationally, and sung in a choir that won three gold medals at the 2025 European Choir Games in Denmark.
Headmaster Riaan Bisschoff says their music department is a vital part of the school’s identity.
“There is a perception of Selborne as only a sporting school. However, nothing is further from the truth.
“We are a different school of thought that offers a holistic education to all boys.
“I am proud of the calibre of staff we have in our music department. They are all accomplished musicians in their own right, and our boys are privileged to be given these opportunities.
“Our music department is as strong as our academic and sports departments,” Bisschoff said.
With such exceptional teachers, Selborne Primary’s music department will continue to nurture talent, creativity and character, ensuring that every boy has the chance to find his rhythm.
