Moses Khumalo

Moses Khumalo was born in Meadowlands, Soweto, in 1979. He studied at Thobeka Primary School and in 1993 completed his matriculation at Pace Community College. Moses then went on to study at Manu Technical College from 1994 to 1998.

During his first year at Manu, Moses studied piano, and in February 1995 started playing his primary instrument, the saxophone. On completion of these studies, Moses received a diploma in music theory, music history, and oral (including songwriting and ensemble) as well as performance saxophone and piano. Moses' first gig was at the Grahamstown Festival in 1995 with the Soweto Youth Jazz Band, under the auspices of Mokale Koapeng. The orchestra went on to perform in places like London and West Africa for the next three years.

He burst onto the local jazz scene as a member of the late pianist Moses Molelekwa's band and spent the next three years performing both locally and abroad. His fresh talent and remarkable ability led to a great demand for the young saxophonist, who has performed with the likes of Hugh Masekela, Sibongile Khumalo, Themba Mkhize and Paul Hanmer. Moses has been part of various bands, including those of renowned musicians Khaya Mahlangu, Vusi Khumalo and Prince Lengoasa.

Moses' band, Moses Khumalo and Friends, is made up of highly talented musicians and has become a constant feature at various clubs in and around Johannesburg. As a composer, musician and songwriter, Moses is regarded as one of South Africa's finest developing artists. His recent signing to premier independent record label Sheer Sound is testament to that fact. His debut recording, Mntungwa, encompasses the many musical aspects for which he is becoming famous.

— Courtesy Calabash Music