The Johannesburg Philharmonic Orchestra Valentine’s Gala Concert 2026: What to Expect

Join the Johannesburg Philharmonic Orchestra for the annual Valentine’s Gala Concert for a mix of classical works and contemporary love-themed songs for both young and old. This year, the concert takes place on Saturday, 14 February at the Linder Auditorium.

Well-known conductor Daniel Boico will guide the orchestra for this special concert. The guest soloist for the evening is award-winning pianist Charl du Plessis, along with ballroom dancers Nkululeko Khumalo and Sthembile Ndwalane.

“The Valentine’s concert with the Johannesburg Philharmonic Orchestra provides a conducive environment for celebrating with loved ones, family and friends, whilst enjoying beautiful music,” says Bongani Tembe, Chief Executive and Artistic Director of the JPO. Here’s what you need to know.

What’s on the Valentine’s Gala Concert programme

The evening soundscape features a mixed bag of popular classics and love-themed music for all to enjoy. The Valentine’s Gala Concert experience is an indulgent and evolved selection of music.

Here are the featured guest conductor and soloists

The Johannesburg Philharmonic Orchestra Valentine's Gala Concert in Johannesburg | What's On in Joburg

Guest conductor, Daniel Boico

Daniel Boico is a frequent guest conductor with the Johannesburg Philharmonic Orchestra and will lead this year’s Valentine’s Gala Concert. Described by critics as “dynamic, vigorous and imaginative”, Boico is known for combining magnetic charisma with assured technique and deep musical insight.

He is the Artistic Director and CEO-designate of the Free State Symphony Orchestra and has conducted orchestras across the United States, Europe, Central and South America, Africa and Asia. His international career includes serving as Assistant Conductor of the New York Philharmonic, where he led the orchestra’s Young People’s Concerts and toured extensively, as well as former Music Director of the MÁV Budapest Symphony Orchestra.

Boico has worked closely with leading figures such as Daniel Barenboim, Pierre Boulez and Zubin Mehta, and has appeared in major concert halls worldwide, including Berlin, New York, Moscow and Tel Aviv. Born in Israel to a musical family and trained in Paris, the United States and Russia, he brings a rich global perspective and expressive clarity to every performance.

Charl Du Plessis Johannesburg Philharmonic Orchestra Valentine's Gala Concert in Johannesburg | What's On in Joburg

Guest soloist, Charl du Plessis

Charl du Plessis is a Steinway Artist and internationally celebrated crossover pianist, blending classical virtuosity with jazz spontaneity. He was the youngest pianist in Africa to become a Steinway Artist and the first ever to perform on top of Table Mountain.

Touring worldwide, he has appeared at London’s Royal Albert Hall, Hamburg’s Elbphilharmonie, Shanghai’s Oriental Arts Centre, Basel Stadtcasino and beyond. A four-time SAMA winner, Charl is praised for his improvisational flair and magnetic stage presence. He is the founder of the Charl du Plessis Trio and performs live at more than 130 concerts annually to redefine the meeting point of jazz and classical music.

A special performance by ballroom dancers, Nkululeko Khumalo and Sthembile Ndwalane

Guests will have the rare opportunity to witness a ballroom dancing performance by one of the country’s esteemed duos, set to the smooth sounds of a live orchestra. Dancers Nkululeko Khumalo and Sthembile Ndwalane knew instantly they had found something special. Based in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, the pair are a championship ballroom dancing couple whose connection is rooted in shared values of respect, faith, discipline and humility.

Since forming their partnership in September 2022, Nkulu and Sthe have competed in the adult amateur championship category, quickly establishing themselves as standout performers. Their chemistry, technical precision and expressive quality have seen them place highly at every competition they enter.

In just two years, they have claimed multiple national titles, including South African Champions under SADTA in 2022, followed by National Champions League and KwaZulu-Natal Champions under FEDANSA in 2023. Achieving such success so early speaks to both their exceptional training and natural synergy.