by TINTSWALO BALOYI
JOHANNESBURG, (CAJ News) – JOHANNESBURG’S cultural calendar is set to strike a rich and resonant chord as the Wits Standard Bank Piano Festival returns for its highly anticipated second edition, bringing together an impressive lineup of pianists for a weekend of musical brilliance.
Running from 8 to 10 May 2026 at the Chris Seabrooke Music Hall at the University of the Witwatersrand, the festival promises an immersive experience, blending the elegance of classical traditions with the soul of South African jazz.
Carefully curated by acclaimed composer and bassist Carlo Mombelli, the event is fast becoming a standout celebration of the piano as both a timeless and evolving instrument.
This year’s programme unfolds across four intimate double-bill concerts, each designed to highlight distinct musical voices.
The opening night on Friday sets the tone with performances from Thembi Dunjana and Thandi Ntuli, two dynamic artists known for pushing the boundaries of jazz through deeply personal and expressive styles.
Saturday offers a double dose of musical excellence. The afternoon concert features Yonela Mnana alongside award-winning pianist Bokani Dyer, whose work continues to redefine contemporary African jazz.
Later that evening, audiences can look forward to a compelling pairing of veteran musician Hilton Schilder and celebrated pianist Andile Yenana, both revered for their deep-rooted connection to South Africa’s musical heritage.
The festival concludes on Sunday with a globally inspired finale, as rising star Megan-Geoffrey Prins shares the stage with international guest Taíssa Poliakova.
Their collaboration promises a captivating blend of technical mastery and cross-cultural dialogue.
At the heart of the festival is the Chris Seabrooke Music Hall, an intimate venue purpose-built for chamber music.
With its exceptional acoustics and a Shigeru Kawai concert grand piano taking centre stage, the space offers audiences a rare opportunity to experience every nuance and detail of live performance up close.
For organisers, the festival is about more than just music—it is a celebration of connection and creativity.
It reflects the University of the Witwatersrand’s long-standing commitment to fostering artistic exchange, while giving both local and international talent a platform to engage in meaningful dialogue through sound.
Each artist brings a unique perspective to the stage.
From Thembi Dunjana’s award-winning explorations of heritage and identity, to Thandi Ntuli’s genre-fluid fusion of jazz, soul and African influences, the lineup reflects the diversity and depth of contemporary piano music.
Yonela Mnana’s thoughtful compositions, Bokani Dyer’s lyrical storytelling, and Andile Yenana’s refined incorporation of traditional melodies all contribute to a rich musical tapestry.
Meanwhile, Hilton Schilder’s decades-spanning career rooted in the Kaapse Klopse tradition adds historical depth, while Megan-Geoffrey Prins and Taíssa Poliakova offer a striking blend of youthful virtuosity and international flair.
With tickets priced at R300 per concert and limited seating available, demand is expected to be high for what promises to be an unforgettable weekend of music.
As Johannesburg continues to cement its reputation as a cultural hub, the return of the Wits Standard Bank Piano Festival signals a celebration not only of the instrument, but of the artists and stories that bring it to life.
– CAJ News