Musa Makgato, a name quickly becoming synonymous with South Africa's vibrant classical music scene, is proving that passion and perseverance are the ultimate instruments of success. Born in Johannesburg and now a BMus 4 student at Rhodes University, Musa has rapidly transitioned from a self-described "music enthusiast" with limited resources to an award-winning clarinet virtuoso. His journey is not just a personal triumph but an inspiring story of talent, grit and guidance.
Professor Catherine Foxcroft, his mentor and accompanist, remembers Musa’s start vividly. “Musa is an example of a student who, arriving at Rhodes University in 2021, displayed incredible musical talent at his audition,” she says. “Despite not having had the privilege of formal music education at school, his potential was immediately apparent.”
Makgato's recent achievements are a testament to his hard work and exceptional talent. In 2024 alone, he made a significant impression, winning first prize in the Rhodes University Department of Music and Musicology’s Mavis Hill competition. He also clinched two prestigious accolades at the UNISA Directorate National Grade 8 Scholarship Competition: the coveted First Prize (a R20 000 scholarship for study at a South African university) and the Developing Artist award. These wins showcase not only his advanced technical and musical skills but also his flair for musical performance.
“Musa thrived on both practical and academic fronts,” says Prof Foxcroft. “His immense talent, diligence, and commitment to acquiring skills on the clarinet enabled him to rapidly progress to a level of performance which positioned him as a top student in the department.”
That success has continued to grow this year. At the first Cape Town Woodwind Competition, Musa won the award for the best performance of a South African composition in the senior category, underscoring his commitment to elevating local music. In July, he was awarded a full scholarship to attend the Stellenbosch International Chamber Music Festival, an immersive 10-day festival where he performed as 1st Clarinet in chamber groups and the symphony orchestra. This was a remarkable opportunity that will allow him to further hone his craft on a national stage.
These milestones, Musa says, push him to reach even further. "I've always been an outgoing and passionate person when it comes to what I want. So the wins are motivation for me to continue striving for the best in my career. The talent I instil is a gift from God and it's very great."
Beyond competitions, Musa's performance calendar has also been packed. He played at the National Arts Festival in 2024 with the Eastern Cape Woodwind Orchestra and collaborated with fellow artist Asakhe Cuntsulana. “It was really a great experience as to the lessons I’ve learnt in life and in this music industry too,” he reflects. “I got to find out how the industry works in terms of organising performances and also got to see how professionals prepare.”
Another major highlight was his June performance of the first movement of the Mozart Clarinet Concerto with the Eastern Cape Philharmonic Orchestra. It was a moment that marked not just achievement, but arrival.
But even with his demanding schedule, Musa remains grounded and generous. He taught clarinet at Graeme College in Makhanda as part of a Community Music Outreach Project. “I’ve learnt that even though the talent and craft is yours, it’s not for you to keep to yourself,” he says. “You definitely have to give it back because not everyone is privileged nor advantaged to be at the level you are on.”
Prof Foxcroft emphasises that Rhodes University’s approach enables students like Musa to thrive. “The Music and Musicology Department at Rhodes University offers students who have not had the privilege of formal music education at school the opportunity to audition for Instrumental Music Studies during Orientation Week. If a student is musically gifted and demonstrates the self-discipline to develop their skills, they are welcomed into our department.”
This open-door ethos was exactly what Musa needed. “Rhodes University is the most lenient and hardworking institution,” he says. “I applied with no formal grades in music and Rhodes University gave me an opportunity to grow my craft with them. That’s how I ended up right here.”
His clarinet teacher, Ms Jenny Brand – who also teaches at Kingswood College and lectures part-time at Rhodes University – has played an instrumental role in shaping Musa’s musical development and helping him find his place in the national classical scene.
Reflecting on his journey, Musa hopes his story encourages others to believe that talent and hard work can thrive, no matter where you start. “Whether you’re in a humble or privileged environment, anything is possible if you put yourself in it,” he says. “It’s all in the work you put in secret because God rewards publicly. I always say to myself if I don’t start with something, I won’t finish it. So always strive for the best for yourself and don’t forget to pray to God; He is the source.”
Musa Makgato’s story is more than a personal triumph. It’s a testament to what young South African musicians can achieve when talent meets dedication and opportunity. Through his journey and his music, he is shaping the future of South African classical music and inspiring a new generation to follow in his footsteps.