Mzansi Meets the World: Global Talents Join the Mzansi National Philharmonic Orchestra National Tour

The Mzansi National Philharmonic Orchestra kicks off their 2026 National Tour, “Mzansi Meets the World”, at the Linder Auditorium on Thursday, 3 December 2026, before presenting concerts in Cape Town and Gqeberha.

This year’s National Tour marks a milestone moment, being the Orchestra’s fifth Anniversary Concert Tour, and to mark the occasion, the tour brings together world-class international virtuosos and South Africa’s finest orchestral talent for performances demonstrating a seamless merging of cultures.

Joseph Young Credit Jeff Roffman (left) and Maxim Vengerov © Davide Cerati (right) Mzansi National Philharmonic Orchestra Mzansi Meets World | What's on in Joburg — Joseph Young (image credit: Jeff Roffman) and Maxim Vengerov (© Davide Cerati)

Global acts take centre stage in Mzansi Meets the World

Universally hailed as one of the world’s finest musicians, and often called the greatest living string player, Grammy Award winner Maxim Vengerov performs alongside Mzansi Philharmonic under the baton of acclaimed American conductor Joseph Young.

Joseph Young, celebrated for his dynamic interpretations and commitment to expanding the orchestral repertoire, returns to South Africa to conduct the tour’s full programme.

His collaboration with Mzansi Philharmonic underscores the Orchestra’s ongoing mission to bring internationally recognised talent into direct partnership with South African musicians.

Mzansi National Philharmonic Orchestra Mzansi Meets World | What's on in Joburg

A programme featuring classic compositions and South African originals

The musical programme for the evening includes Brahms’ Violin Concerto in D Major, Saint-Saëns’ Symphony No. 3 (“Organ Symphony”) in C minor and a new South African composition commissioned especially for this milestone celebration. Alongside the performances, Maxim Vengerov leads a masterclass for South Africa’s gifted young string players.