Sibusiso Mashiloane Returns with Mash Trio Ahead of Cape Town International Jazz Festival

Pianist and composer Sibusiso Mashiloane is set to return to the stage with his long-time collaborators Dalisu Ndlazi (bass) and Riley Giandhari (drums) for a special Mash Trio performance at the Centre for Jazz and Popular Music, UKZN, on February 18. The event comes ahead of his appearance at the 2026 Cape Town International Jazz Festival in March.

Rooted in African sonic traditions and strengthened by years of collaboration, Mash Trio delivers a live experience that moves seamlessly between soulfulness, groove, and improvisation. Their set will feature Mashiloane’s most celebrated compositions from 2016 to 2025, alongside spontaneous moments that emerge only in real time. The music draws inspiration from home, memory, and the quiet power of shared experience.

“Our chemistry is the kind that can’t be manufactured. It’s built over years of listening, really listening, to each other. Expect special guests, surprises, and a sound experience that celebrates the heartbeat of the people,” Mashiloane said. He added, “If you’ve seen Mash Trio before, you already know: we aim to leave people with a feeling they can’t quite name, but they’d want it again.”

At the heart of Mash Trio is Dr Sibusiso Mashiloane, a senior lecturer at UKZN and a respected academic. He holds a PhD in Music, with research focusing on South African jazz identity and the cultural “sound of home” that informs contemporary expression. His dual role as scholar and performer allows him to bridge deep musical knowledge with dynamic stage presence.

Bassist Dalisu Ndlazi brings a sensitive and grounded approach to the trio’s sound. Ndlazi’s musical journey began in Umlazi at the Siyakhula Community Development Centre. He was named National Schools Big Band bassist at the Standard Bank Youth Jazz Festival in 2012 and later served as national youth band bassist from 2015. In 2019, he attended the Louis Armstrong Summer Camp in New Orleans, cementing his status as a rising figure in South African jazz.

Drummer Riley Giandhari, also known as Riley G, rounds out the trio with precision and creativity. A Durban-based composer and producer, Giandhari began playing drums at age three under the guidance of his father, Pravin Giandhari. He studied jazz at UKZN and holds a Master’s in Music (Summa Cum Laude), earning accolades including two SAMRO Overseas Scholarship awards in 2018 and Mzansi Jazz Awards nominations for his artistry and debut album.

This performance is part of a broader initiative by the CTIJF to highlight artists in their hometowns through activations in Durban and Johannesburg. The Mash Trio show promises to be a compelling prelude to the main festival, offering audiences an intimate glimpse into one of South Africa’s most dynamic jazz ensembles.

Event details:
Event: Sibusiso Mashiloane – Mash Trio Live
Date: February 18
Time: 6.30pm
Venue: Centre for Jazz and Popular Music, UKZN, Howard College Campus, Dennis Shepstone Building, Level 2, Durban