Mzansi National Philharmonic Orchestra Celebrates South African Excellence and Global Music Collaboration Through Its New National Tour: Voices of Home
Mzansi National Philharmonic Orchestra announces its latest national tour, Voices of Home – a celebration of South Africa’s heritage and world-class musical artistry.
2023 Mzansi National Philharmonic Orchestra
The Mzansi National Philharmonic Orchestra is presenting its most expansive national tour yet, celebrating South African artistry alongside global repertoire.
This December, audiences in Johannesburg, Durban, and Cape Town will witness a powerful meeting of musical legends. Internationally acclaimed conductor Marin Alsop will join forces with South African cello sensation Abel Selaocoe and master percussionist Bernhard Schimpelsberger, creating a performance that bridges continents while remaining deeply connected to South African heritage.
At the heart of the programme is the South African tour debut of Selaocoe’s Four Spirits Cello Concerto, paired with Rachmaninov’s Symphony No. 2, a romantic masterpiece renowned for its sweeping melodies. The evening promises a journey that resonates with both pride and passion.
A Celebration of South Africa’s Rising Voice
“Voices of Home is not another concert tour. It is a national celebration to bring South Africans together. From historic echoes to contemporary creation, the tour is a tribute to the excellence of music, heritage, and the dynamic cultural momentum of South Africa”. said Bongani Tembe, Chief Executive and Artistic Director of Mzansi Philharmonic.
Alsop, one of the most celebrated conductors of her generation, added: “I’m incredibly excited to join Mzansi Philharmonic for this meaningful and dynamic tour. Abel Selaocoe is one of the most original voices in classical music today. He is passionate, fearless, and deeply connected to home. This tour celebrates what is possible when tradition meets innovation.”
Reflecting on Four Spirits, and his debut with Mzansi Philharmonic, composer and soloist Selaocoe shared: “Four Spirits was born from the stories and sounds that shaped me; memory, joy, rhythm, resistance, and celebration. To bring this work to audiences across South Africa with the Mzansi National Philharmonic Orchestra is a deep honour. It feels like bringing the music home.” His compositions are deeply rooted in his South African heritage, making him central to the Voices of Home narrative.
Redefining the Boundaries of Classical Music
The Voices of Home tour reflects the Mzansi Philharmonic’s vital mandate: to broaden access to orchestral music across South Africa, while presenting flagship events that showcase the finest South African musical talent.
With each performance, Mzansi Philharmonic strengthens its role as a proudly South African orchestra that balances global standards with a deep commitment to heritage and community impact.
Mzansi National Philharmonic spreads the gift of music
Beyond the stage, the ‘Voices of Home’ tour will also feature special community upliftment activities, including intimate performances at hospitals in each city. These form part of Mzansi Philharmonic’s ongoing pledge to broaden access to orchestral music and share the healing power of music with diverse audiences.
Tour Dates and Venues:
- Johannesburg – Linder Auditorium | 19:30 | 10 & 11 December
- Durban – Playhouse Opera Theatre | 15:00 | 13 December
- Cape Town – Cape Town City Hall | 18:00 | 16 December
Tickets are available now via Quicket.
