Ofentse Moshwetsi wins jazz prize

First-year saxophone student Ofentse Moshwetsi is this year’s winner of the Paul Bothner Jazz Prize, which is valued at R10 000.

The annual prize goes to the most impressive achiever in the jazz section at UCT’s South African College of Music.

Moshwetsi says that music has been an integral part of his personal growth and well-being.

“I’ve always done my best, but the news came as a shock. I still cannot believe it,” he says. “As fantastic as it feels to have won the prize, it also brings with it a lot more responsibility and future expectations from myself and my family.”

Moshwetsi aspires to complete his BMus degree and to gain experience in the music industry.

“I am also planning to continue my involvement in the community project led by my uncle, Arcs Moshwetsi, to share my knowledge with the people from all walks of life especially the youth.”

Story Chido Mbambe. Photo Michael Hammond.

Caption: Ofentse Moshwetsi playing his alto sax at the VC’s Concert in August this year.