The Music Academy of Gauteng (MAG) will host a special celebration of International Jazz Month featuring legendary South African saxophonist Khaya Mahlangu on 25 April. This highly anticipated event will take place at the academy’s campus in Cloverdene, bringing together Jazz lovers, students, and the wider community to celebrate the rich heritage of South African Jazz.

International Jazz Month, celebrated globally in April and culminating in International Jazz Day on 30 April, highlights Jazz as a powerful tool for cultural exchange, education, and unity. The upcoming performance by Khaya Mahlangu forms part of the academy’s ongoing commitment to preserving and promoting South African Jazz excellence.

Khaya Mahlangu. Picture by Thabo Rapetswa

Khaya Mahlangu is one of South Africa’s most respected and accomplished Jazz musicians. A world class saxophonist, composer, and educator, Mahlangu has played a significant role in shaping the sound and development of South African Jazz for several decades. He began his musical journey in the 1970s and quickly established himself as a formidable performer. Over the years, Mahlangu has shared stages with some of the most influential figures in Jazz, including South African legends such as Hugh Masekela, Abdullah Ibrahim, and Jonas Gwangwa.

His playing is known for its depth, spiritual expression, and mastery of both soprano and tenor saxophones. Beyond performance, Mahlangu has also dedicated much of his life to music education. He has mentored and trained numerous young musicians and has contributed to the development of Jazz education in South Africa. His work continues to inspire new generations of artists who seek to understand and preserve the legacy of African Jazz traditions.

This concert will not only showcase Mahlangu’s exceptional artistry but will also provide students and audiences with a rare opportunity to experience one of the country’s Jazz masters in an intimate and educational setting. The academy, founded in 1994 by the late legendary trumpeter Dr Johnny Mekoa, has long been a hub for nurturing Jazz talent and preserving South Africa’s musical heritage. Hosting Khaya Mahlangu during International Jazz Month aligns with the institution’s mission to connect young musicians with the legends who shaped the country’s musical identity.