Cape Town – Award-winning jazz pianist, scholar, and performer Nduduzo Makhathini has earned global recognition, taking home the prestigious “Live Act of the Year – International” award at the German Jazz Prize.
The ceremony, held on June 13, honoured 22 outstanding artists and contributors to both the international and local jazz scenes, celebrating excellence and innovation in the genre.
Following his win, Makhathini took to Instagram to express his gratitude, thanking the supporters who travelled from South Africa to attend the event. He also paid tribute to his many collaborators and colleagues who helped shape his musical journey.
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“The moment with some South Africans ululating: I’m sure that was from our great Sisters @tutupuoane and @lungi24 in the audience, that sound brought so much joy, it brought us ‘home’
“The community with all the nominees/winners, I have so much love and respect for all of them.
“I tried to say it all in a speech yesterday, but it is impossible but maybe let me mention some names of the people that have collaborated with me in my various groups, internationally, leading up to this recognition” said Makhatini.
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He also performed during the ceremony, delivering a dazzling live set alongside Omagugu Makhathini, which drew enthusiastic praise from the audience.
Karen Kennedy, commenting on the performance, said:
“Their music draws on the imminence of African creation and humanism, where live performances are ritual experiences, what he calls “on going rehearsals” – full of depth, brilliance and provocative thought, moving us to find ways to discover ‘the essence of being’. What is presented is just as impressive as what is said. A voice with power, a musician with vision.”
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Picture: Instagram/nduduzomakhathini
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Compiled by Anda Tolibadi
