Pianist to kick off concerts

DURBANITES will be spoilt for choice this festive season as Samro Foundation/Concerts SA, and the Norwegian Embassy are hosting a series of Sundowners concerts at the BAT Centre.

The first concert kicks off on Sunday. Durban pianist and recording artist Mthobisi Mthalane will be playing a 90-minute repertoire with his band which comprises Mzamo Zungu (drums), Andile Ndlovu (bass) and Vusi Mkhize (guitar).

Sanele Mnguni and Bongani Mlambo will be performing vocals and Nhlanhla Moletsane, Luyanda Mchunu, Thembinkosi Khumalo and Manelisi Khumalo will feature on the horn section.

Mthalane is from Impendle, Pietermaritzburg. The University of KwaZulu-Natal graduate (2007), who has a diploma in jazz and popular music, has worked with some of South Africa’s iconic musicians.

These include Dorothy Masuku, Madala Kunene, Rebecca Malope and Benjamin Dube.

The second concert, which takes place on December 12, will feature Simthandile Mtolo. The concert being performed on December 18 sees Cebo Ngema owning the stage.

Next year kicks off with consecutive acts on January 16, January 23 and January 30. The first band will feature pianist Jaedon Daniel, followed by bass and voice duo act Ariel & Juana and closes with talented vocalist Dumza Maswana from Gauteng.

“Music is a therapeutic art-form that can heal souls and mend broken hearts while spreading the ‘feel-good vibes’ through all ages. Live music is a universal language that seeks to unite us all into the beauty of social cohesion and multiracialism,” says BAT Centre patron.

All concerts are free, and only 50 people will be allowed at the venue due to Covid 19 health regulations. Should there be greater demand for the concerts, a bigger venue like the Sipho Gumede Hall (main auditorium) may be utilised.

The Mthobisi Mthalane concert starts at 3pm at the BAT Centre on Sunday.