About Us

ABOUT
US

MZANSI NATIONAL PHILHARMONIC ORCHESTRA

At the Mzansi National Philharmonic Orchestra we believe in the power of music to transform lives.

Driven by the pursuit of musical excellence, we strive to deliver extraordinary performances that showcase our African vibrancy, our artistic integrity and our talent, inspiring and moving audiences wherever we go.

As ambassadors of South African classical music, we aim to make orchestral music accessible to all, connecting with a rich and culturally diverse audience to build relationships and create opportunities that were never there before.

Discover our story, our vision, and the passion that drives us.

HISTORY AND ORIGINS

In 2021, the Mzansi National Philharmonic Orchestra (Mzansi Philharmonic) was properly constituted as a non-profit company (Section 30) with a distinguished Board of Directors. In July 2022, after many months of preparation, engagement with national and international partners, and the establishment of necessary business plans and protocols, South Africa’s first national orchestra in the democratic era was officially launched by the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture.

As articulated in the Revised White Paper, which was approved by cabinet in August 2018 and endorsed by parliament in February 2020, “…harnessing the arts, culture and heritage for creative expression, education and training, job creation, and the eradication of poverty through close cooperation with all the levels of government and related departments, as well as the international community, is an essential aspect of the transformation process.”

“MOVING INTO THE FUTURE, WE ARE RESOLVED TO ENSURE THAT THE ARTS, CULTURE AND HERITAGE, CONTRIBUTE TO CHANGE AND THE CREATION OF A BETTER LIFE FOR ALL.” BY BONGANI TEMBE

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ARTISTIC VISION AND MISSION

We are South Africa’s national orchestra, internationally recognised for artistic excellence and for utilising music to bring people together across race and class.

Our Mission:
  • Creating world-class orchestral music experiences and touring events, nationally and internationally.
  • Strengthening cultural diplomacy and branding favourably in our country, Africa and across the globe.
  • Creating job opportunities in the orchestral music sector.
  • Supporting and partnering with provincial and youth orchestras to create platforms within communities for the experience of orchestral music.
  • Broadening the orchestral experience of South Africa by supporting emerging orchestras and helping to establish orchestras in provinces without their own.
  • Identifying highly-talented, young musicians and nurturing their skills; and
  • Embracing our responsibility to contribute to a socially-cohesive society with a common national identity.

Our People

SPEARHEADING CHANGE AND CHAMPIONING DEVELOPMENT

The Mzansi National Philharmonic Orchestra is led by an astute board of directors, chaired by Justice Leona Theron of the Constitutional Court of South Africa.

In addition, the Orchestra has established an Artistic Planning Committee formed with the purpose of engaging with and advising the Orchestra on a number of artistic matters. The Mzansi National Philharmonic Orchestra is comprised of 110 non-permanent musicians drawn from provincial orchestra, universities and freelance musicians who perform with the Orchestra periodically.

From event hire to business workshops, we love working with communities.

The versatility of the Orchestra means that it can complement almost any event or performance, and we’re very open minded when it comes to exploring possibilities. Reach out here and let’s see how we can create transformation together.

CONNECT WITH US AND BECOME PART OF OUR STORY

COLLABORATIONS

LOOKING TO HIRE AN ORCHESTRA FOR YOUR SPECIAL EVENT OR PROJECT?

Collaboration is at the heart of our artistic endeavors. We have had the privilege of collaborating with renowned guest artists, conductors, and composers from around the world.

These collaborations have resulted in unforgettable performances that have touched the hearts of audiences. From symphony classics to groundbreaking premieres, our performances have been hailed for their emotional depth, technical brilliance, and artistic interpretations. We are proud to have shared the stage with these exceptional talents and created musical moments that will be cherished forever.

WE USE MUSIC TO BRING PEOPLE TOGETHER

- HANS CHRISTIAN ANDERSON

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT AND OUTREACH

We believe in the power of music to transform lives and enrich communities.

Our commitment to community engagement and outreach programmes is at the core of our mission. Through our partnerships with educational initiatives, youth orchestras, workshops, and collaborations with schools and community organizations, we strive to make classical music accessible to all.

We believe that music has the ability to inspire, uplift, and empower, and we are dedicated to creating opportunities for individuals to engage with the arts and discover their own musical potential.

Partnerships

SUPPORT AND PARTNERSHIPS

We are grateful for the support of our patrons, sponsors, and partners who share our passion for the arts.

Their contributions and partnerships have been instrumental in our success. We invite you to join us on this musical journey by supporting us through donations, sponsorships, or becoming a valued member of our community. Your support enables us to continue creating exceptional performances, nurturing young talents, and making a positive impact on society through the power of music.

CONTACT INFORMATION

CONTACT INFORMATION

We welcome your inquiries, feedback, and partnership opportunities. Please feel free to reach out to us via our form, or you can contact us directly.

We look forward to hearing from you and connecting with you.