Bheki Khoza - Music in the Bay

Welcome to the Bonne Esperance Musical Experience 

Our inaugural concert takes place on the 21st of March 2024.

There is no-one better to kick off our amazing concert season than the living legend, composer, teacher, music director and storyteller Bheki Khoza.

Born in Umlazi, Durban 64 years ago, Bheki remains one of the few left-handed guitar players in South Africa. He was exposed to music by his grandmother who played the harp and harmonica. Growing up in a township Bheki played at weddings, funerals and in ball room bands. He listened to Philip Tabane, Alan Kwela, Abdullah Ibrahim, Wes Montgomery, Joe Pass and George Benson. From this Bheki created a fusion of socially conscious lyrics, melodic jazz, a dash of R&B and African rhythms.

Over his long career, Bheki has played with the African Jazz Pioneers, Sakhile, Abie Cindi, Sipho Gumede, Winston Mankunku Ngozi, Rene McClean, Victor Ntoni, Mike Makhalemala, George Lee, and Barney Rachabane, among others. He also backed South Africa’s famous songbirds, such as Sibongile Khumalo, Sophie Mgina, Dolly Rathebe, Abigail Kubheka and Themi Mtshani.

In 1991 he received a talent Award and Scholarship to study music in America with the great Jackie McClean. During his four years in the USA Bheki played with Kenny Barron, Hilton Ruiz, Cecil McBee and many more. In 1995 Bheki recorded an album entitled “Asamba”. He has also composed music for the African Jazz Pioneers. In early 2000s he was appointed musical director for the South African Production of “Drum”. Today Bheki is a sought-after performer, music teacher, composer and lecturer.

After 30 years in Johannesburg, Bheki is now back in Durban. He says “I go where music takes me. Music is like a spirit. I follow.” We Invite you to indulge yourself in a deeply moving, inspiring and spiritually nourishing musical experience. 

Music in the Bay is a collaboration between Bonne Esperance and curator, Vonita Bates. Every third Thursday of the month we will host an intimate, live music experience in the parlour of the heritage home and guest house, Bonne Esperance. 

The ticket price includes soft drinks, wine and canapés.