In 2009, the Riebeek College Senior School Choir won the ATKV Applous Wisseltrofee for the “Beste Nie-Afrikaans Moedertaalsprekende koor”, and took home all the awards for which they could qualify.

The choir also received awards for best performance of an African song, best performance of a set work, best high school non-Afrikaans mother tongue girls‘ school and a gold certificate at the regional festival.

The Riebeek College Girls’ High School Choir, consisting of 67 learners, was the only high school in the Eastern Cape that made it through to the National ATKV-Applous Choir Competition Finals held in Bloemfontein from 30 July to 01 August, 2009.

They featured prominently amongst all the choirs when they received the following awards:
• Gold certificate for their performance
• Best performance of the prescribed song
• Best performance of an indigenous song
• Best Girls Choir in Category
• Trophy for the best high school choir (including SATB Choirs) of the evening

 “Being part of the choir has taught these young ladies so many wonderful skills and values; good listening skills, tolerance, perseverance, and often sacrifice. I believe these qualities have spilled over into their academic work ethos,” said Mrs Marilyn Woods, Principal of Riebeek College.

“This experience was memorable for every girl in the choir. In fact, it was the first time that these girls have been to Bloemfontein,” said Rene’ Zietsmann, Choir Co-ordinator.

Their victory song, "2010" is truly inspirational and its vibrant tune really stirs excitement and hype, especially now that we are nearing the 2010 Soccer World Cup. We are absolutely proud of what they have achieved and would love an occasion for the girls to get exposure whilst singing their "2010"song.
 
One of the grade 11 Choir learners, Zoleka Mtila’s, grandfather, Mr Mbulelo Nzo, a renowned Xhosa author and composer, especially composed this song and lyrics for Riebeek College, called, “2010”. At our annual Founder’s Day celebration, he conducted the choir himself and at the Regional competition he explained the meaning of the song to the audience.
 
"It is an engaging, catchy tune that celebrates South Africa as the hosting country for the world cup. It encompasses the hustle and bustle that is expected to spread throughout the country. It is a special song and is performed with great aplomb and much pride,” said Mrs Zietsmann.