The Music Academy of Gauteng will present a Tribute to Victor Ntoni performed by Mzansi Music Ensemble, a spectacular two-day concert honouring one of South Africa’s greatest Jazz icons. The performances will take place on Saturday, 29 November and Sunday 30 November 2025, at the Music Academy of of Gauteng in Benoni.

Founded in 1994 by the late Dr Johnny Mekoa, the Music Academy of Gauteng is one of South Africa’s leading institutions in Jazz education and performance excellence. For over three decades, the Academy has nurtured exceptional talent, preserved the nation’s rich musical heritage, and promoted creativity, discipline, and empowerment – particularly among young and aspiring musicians from disadvantaged backgrounds.

The late Victor Ntoni. Picture by Siphiwe Mhlambi

The Mzansi Music Ensemble – the country’s first ensemble dedicated to performing South African classics and compositions of past and present composers – celebrates the legacy of the late Victor Ntoni, the legendary bassist, composer, arranger, and cultural visionary. The concert will be musically directed by the legendary trumpeter Prince Lengoasa, whose remarkable leadership and artistry bring a unique brilliance to this production.

Following its successful performances around the country and internationally, namely UK, Netherlands, Scotland and Canada, the Ensemble continues to captivate audiences with its 18-piece big band and dynamic voices, weaving together poetry, praise singing, voice, and improvisation in a dazzling display of musical mastery and creativity.

The late Barney Rachabane. Picture by Siphiwe Mhlambi

Characterised by robust energy and cultural innovation, the Mzansi Music Ensemble demonstrates the pursuit of excellence, collaboration, and community upliftment through music. More than just a performance, this project is also a platform for empowerment – aimed at supporting and uplifting young women artists in a traditionally male – dominated industry. These young up and coming artists are paired with and trained by seasoned professionals, who provide mentorship and help them refine their talent and skills. This intergenerational collaboration bridges the gap between South Africa’s musical pioneers and emerging talents, ensuring that the country’s rich Jazz heritage continues to thrive.

The Ensemble’s past international presence has played a crucial role in generating ongoing opportunities by gaining exposure on global platforms, then artists are better positioned to sustain their careers and contribute to long-term viability.

The late Feya Faku. Picture by Siphiwe Mhlambi

The initiative’s impact is evident through the achievements of artists such as Jessica Mbangeni and Dumza Maswana. Both artists spent several years as members of the Mzansi Music Ensemble, where they benefited from the platform’s commitment to mentorship and artistic development. Their involvement highlights the Ensemble’s role in nurturing talent and providing meaningful opportunities for emerging artists to thrive within the South African Jazz community.

Founded under The Gauteng Music Development Initiative, this project brings to life the long-term vision of the late Victor Ntoni, who dreamt of an ensemble capable of performing his original big band scores. Many of these works were written but never performed during his lifetime – and now, through the Mzansi Music Ensemble, that dream is finally realised. In addition, the Ensemble will also pay tribute to the late Barney Rachabane and Feya Faku who were part of the Mzansi Music Ensemble for several years, serving as mentors and guiding the artistic direction of its members.