Wits Theatre Presents Mombelli’s Chapter 7: All About This Exciting New Jazz Project

Local jazz innovator Carlo Mombelli partners with South African leading talents in his latest ensemble project, Chapter 7, to perform new music from his forthcoming release. The ensemble brings an exciting mix of sound together for a debut performance at Wits Theatre on Saturday, 21 February 2026. Here’s what you need to know.

More about local jazz veteran, Carlo Mombelli’s Chapter 7

The Chapter 7 ensemble features acclaimed vocalist and poet Msaki, decorated pianist Kyle Shepherd, accomplished trumpeter Marcus Wyatt, and versatile drummer Jonno Sweetman, all led by bass player and composer Carlo Mombelli in a performance of new music from his forthcoming release, The World is Dancing on the Edge of a Cliff.

Mombelli is one of South Africa’s most significant and restlessly creative musical voices. Over a four-decade career, he has earned international acclaim as a bassist, bandleader, and composer, bridging genres and audiences with a visionary approach that blends the expressive soul of the developing world with the technical depth of the classical tradition.

His work has been described as “disconcertingly beautiful” (Jazz Times, USA) and “unusually and unexpectedly fresh” (Paris Jazz Man Magazine, France).

With each member of the project having achieved their own level of individual acclaim, this ensemble is sure to bring a fresh new level of creativity and originality to the South African jazz landscape.