John Ntsepe

John Ntsepe obtained his doctoral degree from the University of Music and Performing Arts Graz (KUG).

The world renowned Canadian pianist Angela Hewitt described Ntsepe’s piano playing as “unique, interesting, emotional und very passionate.” Critics have dubbed him “a born interpreter.” Ntsepe is also a dedicated teacher; he gives masterclasses and piano workshops. Ntsepe enjoys a multifaceted career that has led to invitations to perform throughout South Africa, Europe, and South America.

In 2011, after completing his studies with his mentor, Francois du Toit at the South African College of Music (University of Cape Town), Ntsepe moved to Austria (Vienna) to further his piano studies with Ralph Heiber. He also obtained a "Specialisation Studies (Piano)" diploma from the Jyväskylä University of Applied Sciences (Finland), under the guidance of Katariina Liimatainen.

Dr Ntsepe was born in Sebokeng, a township in South Africa’s Gauteng province. He started taking formal piano lessons at the age of 14 with Vanessa Burger. His talent in music was immediately apparent: six months later he gave his first public concert. After hearing Ntsepe perform Liszt’s Sonata in B minor, the great Russian pianist Konstantin Scherbakov invited him to participate in his masterclasses at the Hochschule für Musik FRANZ LISZT in Weimar, Germany.

Over the years, Ntsepe has received numerous awards and prizes including at the 20th International Johannes Brahms Wettbewerb in Pörtschach/Wörthersee. He has performed for several dignitaries and Heads of State and has shared the stage with world renowned artists. Dr Ntsepe’s exposure has led him to be a regular guest on many television and radio shows including a documentary on his life being featured on ORF’s 3Sat:Kulturzeit.

John Ntsepe’s tracks

• Prokofiev Sonata No.7 3rd MoV by John Ntsepe
• Mozart Sonata K. 457 (1st Movement) by John Ntsepe
• Wagner-Liszt: Isolde´s Liebestod by John Ntsepe