South African pianist Petronel Malan (b.1976). Born in South Africa, Petronel Malan began lessons with her mother at age four, continuing with Adolph Hallis, a student of both Matthay and Leschetizky. Having debuted with the Johannesburg Symphony at age ten and subsequently winning all major national competitions in her native country, Malan moved to the United States to further her studies. Following a degree at Michigan State University, Petronel Malan completed her graduate work at the University of North Texas. Her teachers have included Steven de Groote, Ralph Votapek and Joseph Banowetz.
Although a permanent resident of the United States, Malan continues her strong ties to her native South Africa. In 2003, she received the 'Rapport/City Press Prestige Award' as one of the '10 Most Inspirational Women in South Africa.'