Bongiwe Lusizi-Mthwakazi
Mthwakazi is known for her completely unique “Xhopera” performances, which combine classical operatic vocals, exclusively in her native isiXhosa, with ancestral sounds from indigenous stringed bows and percussion instruments.
Mthwakazi’s compositions shift back and forth through time, gathering elements of traditional African, choral and church music, jazz, funk and a range of genres. Contemporary instrumentation (keys, bass, brass) adds another layer, and she plays with a formation that ranges from a duo through to a full orchestra, or “Xhochestra”, depending on the occasion.
Mthwakazi draws on a distinguished career of more than 20 years, which saw her perform in South Africa, the United States of America, and Europe as a trained Mezzo Sopranist, Coloratura Sopranist, Dramatic Sopranist and Lyric Sopranist with top ensembles including Isango-Portobello the Olivier Award-winning Opera Company (Cape Town), Guild Theatre (East London), and Rhodes University Theatre (Grahamstown).
Mthwakazi herself is an internationally recognised bow music expert, and plays a variety of bow instruments such as uHadi, uMrhubhe & uMakhweyane, many of which she makes by hand. She has performed alongside legendary artists such as the late Dr Sibongile Khumalo, Hugh Masekela, Madosini, Queen Cora, Simphiwe Dana, Dizu Plaatjies, Pops Mohammed and Jonas Gwangwa.
Mthwakazi is deeply rooted in her Eastern Cape heritage, and her electrifying performances, with extravagant headdresses, painted face designs and designed costumes, evoke images akin to visions. Her music carries a message which emphasizes spirituality, humanity, humility, peace, optimism, unity, co-existence and progress as a way of living.
In 2002, Mthwakazi established the Chosi Chosi Creative Academy, where she teaches rural children the study of agro-musicology. This curriculum aims to popularize and promote indigenous methods of music education while fostering a deeper connection to agriculture, musicology, and therapeutic practices. Rooted in the rich cultural heritage of Africa, this initiative draws inspiration from the versatile African calabash, symbolizing unity, resilience, and solidarity.
