Tshepo Mngoma at Hugh's Jazz Club

Tshepo Mngoma is an accomplished music director, producer, performer, educator, minister, and recording artist whose career spans more than two decades. A dynamic and deeply rooted figure in South Africa’s music landscape, Tshepo brings a rich fusion of technical mastery, creative artistry, and spiritual depth to every project he undertakes.

Born with an innate passion for music, Tshepo honed his craft academically and professionally. He earned a Bachelor of Music in Jazz Studies from the University of Cape Town in 2002, followed by a Master’s in Christian Leadership from Basilea Bible Institute in 2024. This combination of musical and theological training has shaped Tshepo into a multifaceted leader capable of navigating both performance spaces and ministry platforms with equal excellence. Since 2000, Tshepo has graced national and international stages as a performer, bringing energy and musical finesse to renowned festivals and events such as the North Sea Jazz Festival, Joyous Celebration (6/7/8), the Durban Jazz Festival, and the Ugu Jazz Festival. His collaborations span continents, having toured with Hugh Masekela and the South African All Stars through the U.S., Jamaica, and Canada. Notably, he performed with the JMI Orchestra and was featured in Songs of Migration during its UK and U.S. tour run.

As a music director since 2006, Tshepo has led some of the most iconic concerts, television productions, and awards shows in South Africa, including the Standard Bank Jazz Festival, South African Sports Awards, Mbokodo Awards, Jazz Town, Township Awards, and Gauteng Sports Awards. His ability to seamlessly coordinate complex musical arrangements while fostering a sense of unity and purpose among diverse teams has made him a go-to leader in the industry.

His directorial work includes several historically significant events, such as tributes to Nelson Mandela, Gibson Kente, and Babsy Mlangeni; the Presidential Dinners; and milestone celebrations like the 80th birthdays of President Thabo Mbeki, Caiphus Semenya, and John Kani. These moments underscore Tshepo’s trusted position in curating music that speaks not only to the ears but also to the soul of a nation.

In addition to directing and performing, Tshepo has contributed significantly as a composer and arranger. His string and vocal arrangements have enriched projects for Swazi Dlamini, Zahara, Zakes Bantwini, the Mzansi Golden Voices, the German Hessian State Jazz Youth Orchestra, Chevelle Franklyn, and Linda Gcwensa, among others. His work effortlessly blends African musical traditions with jazz and contemporary gospel, creating a sound that is both rooted and transcendent.

As a recording artist, Tshepo has released three acclaimed albums—People and Places, Journey, and 4 Winds—each reflecting his diverse influences, storytelling ability, and deep spiritual sensibility. His music continues to inspire audiences with its authenticity and soul-stirring message.

Beyond the stage, Tshepo is a dedicated educator and mentor, committed to nurturing the next generation of musicians. His skills in vocal coaching, violin instruction, performance scheduling, and creative leadership make him a sought-after mentor and workshop facilitator.

Through all his endeavors, Tshepo remains grounded in his faith and driven by a mission to uplift, educate, and empower through music. Whether directing a live

orchestra, producing an album, leading worship, or teaching a masterclass, Tshepo Mngoma continues to be a beacon of excellence, creativity, and purpose in the global music community.

Doors open at 18:00

The show begins promptly at 19:30

Please refer to our website for FAQ's.

www.hughs.co.za

Tickets are non-refundable