The South African pianist and composer Nduduzo Makhathini has earned widespread acclaim for the genuinely spiritual transcendence of his music. A Zulu healer and educator, Makhathini has delved deeply into the histories and traditions of his ancestors' music. Born in the lush hills of uMgungundlovu, South Africa, Nduduzo Makhathini grew up in an environment where music and ritual were deeply intertwined. This region, historically significant as the site of Zulu King Dingane’s kingdom, profoundly influenced Makhathini’s musical vision. He was drawn to the powerful role of music in the Zulu warrior code for motivation and healing, shaping his unique sound.

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The African Concert Series: Nduduzo Makhathini

Wigmore Hall

Since making his international debut for Blue Note in 2020 with Modes of Communication: Letters From the Underworlds, the South African pianist and composer Nduduzo Makhathini has earned widespread acclaim for the genuinely spiritual transcendence of his music. For Makhathini, a Zulu healer and educator who has delved deeply into the histories and traditions of his ancestors, improvised music has never been merely about aesthetics or idioms. As the New York Times put it when naming Modes of Communication one of the Best Jazz Albums of 2020: “In a moment when spiritual jazz has become a dangerously buzzy concept, trust a musician who has truly devoted his life to divination practices.”

Nduduzo Makhathini

University of California San Diego

As part of our spotlight on the music of South Africa, we present the Carnegie Hall debut of one of the most exciting artists in the international jazz community: pianist, composer, bandleader, and Blue Note recording artist Nduduzo Makhathini. With a range of musical and cultural influences—including Zulu rituals and the church—“Makhathini’s visionary character becomes more fascinating with each new endeavor” (DownBeat). Experience his distinctive, spiritually stirring music in Zankel Hall.

Nduduzo Makhathini, Piano

Carnegie Hall

Over the last decade in jazz’s evolution, no pianist has had the impact of South African keyboard great Nduduzo Makhathini. He brings his working trio and music from his newest Blue Note session, The Myth We Choose, to this SFJAZZ debut.

Nduduzo Makhathini Trio

SFJAZZ Center

A collective tribute marking a century since the birth of iconic saxophonist John Coltrane, reflecting his enduring influence across generations, geographies, and musical traditions.

Nduduzo Makhathini

Events

Upcoming events

12 - 13 Sep, 2026

Nduduzo Makhathini Trio · San Francisco Jazz

Nov 13, 2026

Coltrane 100: Lovano, Aldana, Makhathini, Oh, Watts · Barbican Centre

Past events

Jun 27, 2026

The African Concert Series: Nduduzo Makhathini · Wigmore Hall

Nov 6, 2024

Nduduzo Makhathini · ArtPower at UC San Diego

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