Temba Ncetani

0738630095

Temba Ncetani is a self-taught South African multi-instrumentalist, composer, and music educator from Mthatha. A graduate of the Nelson Mandela University, his debut album INTLUNGU. INTLUPHEKO. IMBILINI. was nominated for Best Jazz Album at the South African Music Awards (SAMAs).

Born in Mthatha, Ncetani's musical journey started at a young age. He is a versatile, self-taught multi-instrumentalist who fluidly plays the bass guitar (both electric and double bass), piano, guitar, saxophone, and flute. He is deeply committed to both performance and music education, having taught at We See Musically and Khanyisa High School in Mthatha.

Career & Collaborations

Early Years: From 2010 to 2013, he played bass for the popular jazz band Take Note, contributing to their album Rear Window under Native Rhythms.

National Presence: He has shared the stage with prominent South African acts such as Sibongile Khumalo, Jimmy Dludlu, Vusi Nova, and Nomfusi.

Solo Work & Awards: Ncetani released his debut album INTLUNGU. INTLUPHEKO. IMBILINI. in 2025, which pays tribute to various Eastern Cape jazz icons and his personal history. The record earned him a SAMA Best Jazz Album nomination.

Discography & Musical Style

His music bridges multiple genres—including jazz, gospel, reggae, and pop—but remains rooted in deep tribute to Eastern Cape jazz heritage. His 2025 SAMA-nominated debut explores atmospheric, emotionally resonant jazz, featuring tracks like eMthatha (My Hometown) and A Song For Faizel (I Remember Siya Mdebele).

“Ncetani hails from Mthatha, where his love of music manifested itself at a young age. He is a self-taught multi-instrumentalist and composer, who is as comfortable with the bass guitar (electric and double bass) as with the piano, guitar, saxophone and flute.” ~ www.theherald.co.za

“He is also a composer, arranger and music teacher at an online music school, We See Musically. He has shared the stage with a number of well-known South African artists...” ~ Facebook · Nelson Mandela University - Department of Music and Performing Arts. [caption id="attachment_3155" align="aligncenter" width="960"]