Ofentse Moses Sebula's Jazz Journey
In a recent radio interview on Tshwane FM’s show “Alumni Talk,” hosted by Malesele Hlakudi, Ofentse Moses Sebula made history as the first saxophonist ever to be featured on the show. This special episode kicked off the year with a deep dive into Sebula's musical journey and achievements. Sebula is not only a saxophonist but also a composer and band leader.
During the interview, Malesele played recordings from people in Ofentse’s life, who expressed their gratitude for having him and experiencing his artistry both on and off stage. Among those who shared their thoughts were his former lecturer, Prof. Karendra Devroop, who praised Sebula's hard work and dedication as a student, as well as Diteboho Kobedi and Kamogelo Matsoso, who wished him continued success in his music career.
Sebula grew up in Tembisa, where cherished memories and musical foundations were laid. At the age of nine, he discovered a profound love and admiration for music. This passion led him to Jerry Molelekwa, father to the late legendary South African pianist Moses Taiwa Molelekwa. Mr Molelekwa took young Sebula under his musical guidance, teaching him music and becoming his mentor. Under his guidance, Ofentse joined the Moses Taiwa Molelekwa Art Foundation in 2012. After five years of rigorous musical training and performance, he became a member of the Taiwa Jazz Band.
Sebula affectionately refers to Jerry as ‘taema ya rena ko kasi,’ meaning that he served as a father figure to many others like him who learned music from him. According to Sebula, Jerry emphasized the importance of prayer before performances, even silently, as well as knowing your craft through reading and practicing, and never taking it for granted.
Sebula has shared stages with prominent jazz artists like Nduduzo Makhatini, Yonela Mnana, Kujenga, Iphupho l’ka Biko, Zakes Bantwini, and Spha Mdlalose, to name a few. Through the musical guidance of Kelly Bell in Grahamstown in 2017, he was chosen to be part of the Standard Bank National School's Big Band. In 2018, he was once more the Standard Bank's National Youth Band's desired and chosen talent, under the musical expertise of Amanda Tiffin. He received his first standing ovation for his composition and improvisation of his song titled "Lost Souls." That same year, the band performed at the Standard Bank Joy of Jazz held annually at the Sandton Convention Centre.
Sebula has been trailblazing the path to his success, sharing stages with other respective trailblazers such as Kabza De Small, DJ Maphorisa, Diteboho Kobedi, Daliwonga, Msaki, Black Motion, Tumi Mogorosi, and Keenan Meyer. He has collaborated with acclaimed projects and productions such as Tshwane Music Production, MIAGI, Etuk Ubong (Nigeria), and the Federal Youth Orchestra (BJO) of Germany during their South African tour, conducted by British Conductor Alexander Shelly.
Sebula's win at the Yamaha Gulf Saxophone Scholarship competition in Dubai was a major achievement, held under the supervision of Professor Karendra Devroop and Mr. Thamsanca Mahlangu. Recently, he released his album "H.O.P. E (Holding onto Positive Expectations)" while completing and graduating his diploma cum laude at the Tshwane University of Technology in 2021. He holds a membership to the Golden Key Society and a Diploma in Jazz and Popular Music, and an Advanced Diploma in Performance.
In July 2024, Sebula was featured on Ditiragalo Tsa Mmino at Botaki ba Afrika, fresh from taking first place at the Yamaha Young Soloist Jazz Competition 2024. Amidst the global pandemic, Sebula managed to shine once more by being selected as a member of the Standard Bank National Youth Jazz Band of 2021, under the musical artistry of Nduduzo Makhatini of East London, South Africa. He went on to acquire his advanced diploma cum laude and was again selected as part of the National Youth Jazz Band of 2022 under the musical genius of trumpeter Mandla Mlangeni.
Ofentse Moses Sebula's journey is a testament to his unwavering dedication and passion for music. From his early beginnings in Tembisa to performing on international stages, Sebula continues to inspire and captivate audiences with his soulful saxophone performances. His story is one of resilience, talent, and a relentless pursuit of excellence in the world of jazz.
Picture Credit: Lulu Ezra
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