UMNGQUNGQO ORCHESTRAL EXPERIENCE COMES TO JOHANNESBURG
A Majestic Fusion of African Storytelling, Jazz, and Orchestral Grandeur at The Market Theatre Johannesburg, South Africa
After two years of acclaimed performances across the Eastern Cape, the Umngqungqo Orchestral Experience arrives in Johannesburg for the very first time, bringing a symphonic celebration of African heritage to the iconic Market Theatre – a stage where South Africa’s music legends have performed, and where Dumza Maswana sang for the birthday celebration of President Thabo Mbeki and the Tribute to Victor Ntoni show exactly 10 years ago.
For Dumza, this performance is more than just a concert, it’s a homecoming. Having spent 16 years of his youth in Johannesburg before returning to the Eastern Cape, the city holds deep personal meaning. “Performing in Jozi is like coming home,” says Dumza. “It’s where my dreams grew, and where so many of my musical heroes inspired me.”
Umngqungqo, meaning “rhythmic dance” or “heartbeat” in isiXhosa, is a blend of isiXhosa indigenous music and jazz, drawn from Dumza’s two celebrated albums and his upcoming release. The Johannesburg performance will feature lush orchestral arrangements by conductor and trumpeter Sakhile Simani and musical director and pianist Mthokozisi Mabuza, transforming the music into a sweeping cinematic experience.