Forbidden by their parents to hang out on the hostile streets, the boys cut their teeth in African choral music and took playing “that funny Euro instruments, mastering them with a natural born ease. The seed had been sown.

In 1978 the dusty road began to clear. While the elder Khemese siblings Reuben and Sandile were representing the Soweto String Quartet in Aberdeen, Scotland, their burgeoning talent was spotted, and in 1980 Sandile secured a place to study music at the Dartington College of Arts in England.  Mike  Masote,  leader  of  the  Soweto  String  Orchestra  then,  said  their  greatest  day  was  when  they  were  invited  to  play  for  Lady  Aberdeen  in  Haddo  House  on  a  Sunday.  “This  was  one  of  the  greatest  chances  which  put  the  quartet  on  the  map.

During  their  two  weeks  visit,  the  group  performed  and  attended  a  classical  music  workshop  which  was  conducted  by  Professor  Alexander  Pavlovvich,  head  of  the  Department  of  Music  in  Belgravia  and  Deborah  Johnson,  a  well-known  classical  musician. 

He then went on to attend the royal Northern College of Music in Manchester for a period of four years. In 1986, armed with new music skills, cultures, languages and lifestyles Sandile returned to a suffering South Africa – and the Soweto String Quartet was re-born once again, to include boyhood friend Makhosini Mnguni.

The Soweto String Quartet sometimes known as SSQ is a world renowned South African Band. The last few years have seen SSQ performed around the world as ambassadors for the new South Africa. SSQ is not your ordinary classic music band. Their music is not conventional string quartet sound but uniquely African. It is a unique blend of traditional rhythms, township jazz, pop songs, jazz-fusion and strong classical influences. SSQ is made up of three brothers Reuben, Sandile and Thami Khemese and a friend Makhosini Mnguni.

The  SSQ  displayed  their  BMW  Zebra  cars  at  the  entrance  and  promotions  to  music  videos  as  well  as  the  month  promotional  tour  of  Germany,  France,  Australia  and  London.  The  popularity  of  these  cars  grew  countrywide,  through  documentaries  and  interviews.

This  was  an  inspiration  for  children  learning  violins  and  aspiring  to  be  like  the  SSQ.  This  gave  rise  to  SSQ  songs  played  and  recorded  by  most  youth  orchestras  i.e.  Baskeid String Project.  The  SSQ  has  thus  celebrated  25  years  of  creating  quality  music  and  derive  sheer  driving  pleasure  of  BMW.

SOWETO STRING QUARTET

With their fifth release entitled OUR WORLD, South Africa’s own Soweto String Quartet have once again raised the bar on creativity and pushed away all musical boundaries to record an album that is perhaps their best ever!

True to form, fresh and brimming with vitality, OUR WORLD is an album that will return the Soweto String Quartet to the heart of the South African nation – a people that were the first to welcome the group’s now signature “classical African” sound with open arms on the release of their multi award winning debut album, ZEBRA CROSSING and then through the quartet’s subsequent offerings, RENAISSANCE, MILLENNIAand FOUR.

Although Reuben (cello), Sandile (principal violin), Thami Khemese (second violin) and long time friend Makhosini Mnguni (viola), affectionately known as SSQ, work hard at expanding their international career, at its essence, this world-renowned quartet is as rooted to the soil of Africa as the Baobab tree.

For the first time ever, the Soweto String Quartet perform an uplifting version of “Summertime” that is likely to earn them plenty of radio play. The song features Khanyo Maphumulo providing startlingly beautiful vocals, and lyrics translated to Zulu (another historical first) by Concord Nkabinde with a distinct homegrown twist.

As the 12-track recording more than reveals, OUR WORLD is organic in sound and sprinkles just enough jazz, reggae, traditional and even Afrikaans music into the mix to turn the album into nothing short of a revelation. It’s also a recording that Reuben, Makhosini, Sandile and Thami are deservedly extremely proud of. As Thami says: “We believe that there must be growth and diversity in our albums and Our World is all about both of these things and so much more.”

In fact, the densely layered sonic journey that is OUR WORLD began as an idea to record an album of African lullabies in the signature SSQ sound. “But as we spent more time on the songs and in the studio, the idea of the album grew and evolved to be something that speaks of this continent and where we have traveled in so many ways,” says Sandile.

Indeed the album’s title is reflective of SSQ’s “world”. Explains Makhosini: “It’s a global vision – we have traveled so extensively, touring our music and taking in influences from all over. But our roots and hearts lie in Africa and so there is a strong feel of that in the music – not just South Africa but Zimbabwe and Uganda and other places on the continent.”

OUR WORLD has a distinct global feel. From the onset, the album – which was produced by Bruce Cassidy - was conceived as variegated in style, moving with ease between traditional songs, drawn from the African continent to reggae, rock, township music, Afrikaans standards, straight-up jazz and, of course, classical music. Time was also spent on ensuring everything - from the production aesthetic to the songs to the SSQ's playing - speaks of real quality, with Our World taking a full year to record, and fitting around the group's intense live schedule.

These are just some of the musicians who add to OUR WORLD. The inimitable Themba Mkhize, pianist Johan Laas, multi-instrumentalist Pops Mohammed, drummer/percussionist Barry van Zyl, horn player and rising talent, Moses Khumalo, guitarists Mauritz Lotz and George Phiri, the International Festival Orchestra and many others add sprinkles of individuality in their playing that lift the album into the musical heavens.

Other classics on the album include “Take Five” (SSQ goes reggae and it’s great!), a medley of Afrikaans songs (entitled “Sarie Marais Medley”), a spiced up cover of Foreigner’s “I Want To Know What Love Is” (complete with Zulu lyrics) and an exquisitely rendered version of “Pavan For A Dead Princess”.

But it is on the quintessentially African tracks that the utter brilliance of OUR WORLD blazes through with the strength of an African summer sun.

On “Kgabo Mokgatla”, the foundation of sounds laid down by Pops Mohammed (including mouth bow, rain-stick, water effects, Mbira, wind whistle, and ocarina or bird effects) is complemented by Themba Mkhize on piano and concertina, as well as Concord Nkabinde on bass, and Barry Van Zyl on drums – SSQ’s playing is centre-stage, at times bold, at others restrained and gentle, turning the piece into a modern-day classic.

Another wholly affecting cut on OUR WORLD is “Emini Kuhle” which was featured on Bruce Cassidy and Pops Mohammed’s first album entitled TIMELESS. Here it has been rearranged specifically for SSQ and a live string orchestra - the International Festival Orchestra boasts 22 players, with the opening notes coming from Mohammed playing the Kora (a West African harp).

“Emini Kuhle” is a delicate number that provides a gorgeous platform for SSQ's evocative playing and deserves to be placed alongside other classical South African tracks.
If you every wondered just how SSQ would sound with a jazz band, then “Yakhal‘Inkomo” is the track to head for – a recording that came about at the suggestion of Makhosini. Here the Winston Mankuku classic (that was a jazz hit in South Africa in the late 60s) is greatly enhanced by SSQ’s contributions and benefits from the alto saxophone playing by Moses Khumalo.

On “Sizwile Ngawe” the deep-voiced Treasure Tshabalala contributes a spoken-word vocal to a song that’s enchanting and boasts a memorable hook and some fantastic Mbira playing.

Ask SSQ which track stands out for each individual member and they all state just how much they love “the entire album”. Says Rueben: “We’ve matured as recording artists and become more innovative and I think it shows on Our World.” Adds Sandile: “The diversity of sound speaks a lot about where the SSQ is heading – and the fact that so many heavyweight talents are working with us showcases the amazing and abundant talent we have in the country, and that our sound can work with.”

The group is heartened by what they are now seeing as their influence coming to the fore. “There is no doubt that seeing four township musicians turning something unique into a form of music that the world wants to hear is really inspiring to young artists in the country,” explains Makhosini. “We often get acknowledged by other young classical African groups, like those working with Buskaid and groups all over the country.”

SSQ is also intent on bringing South African music classics to the fore again through OUR WORLD – like “Yakhal’ Inkomo” and “Skokiaan”. “Music lovers of a younger age will now be able to hear these songs, perhaps for the first time and the country’s older generation will experience new versions of long loved classics,” says Thami. The group has plans for as many shows (from festivals to small venues) as possible over the next year – once again revealing SSQ’s extraordinary work ethic and commitment to exposing their music to as many people as possible, the world over.

In the end OUR WORLD is nothing short of a beautiful addition to SSQ’s growing body of work – and one that every South African and indeed global citizen should own.

 Please note that the listings below are selective and, therefore, do not cover all the numerous corporate and public events that SSQ take part in on a weekly basis.

2006
January

 This is one of many events by the government. SSQ opens with a government function of Signing Ceremony in Sheraton Hotel.

2006
February

SSQ opens the Government Legislature in Mpumalanga.

2006
March

This is the third year that the SSQ is invited by Swedish Match to perform at Swiss Conference.

2006
June

Sun City host a event from 9th June to 11th for the benefit of Tapologo Home which houses people living with, infected and affected by the HIV/AIDS Virus.

2006
October

Prince Edward and Sophie a Royal Couple from England Wessex asks the SSQ to perform for them in Port Elizabeth and to be presented with the SSQ CD Collection.

2006
December

Jacaranda Candle light, SSQ and Soweto Gospel Choir performs in Sandton.

2005
January

SSQ performs in Cape Town for Elton John Aids Foundation of South Africa.

2005
February

SSQ performs at an exclusive event for the launch of Women in Golf at George Cape Town.

2005
February

Sasol S.A invites the SSQ to come and perform for their corporate function.

2005
April

This is an annual concert organised by The University of Cape Town, and the SSQ has been performing since its inception 10 years ago. It is called UCT RAG.

2005
April/May

SSQ travels to the Middle East and spends two weeks to perform in different and neighbouring countries e.g. Telaviv, Qatar, etc.

2005
June

SSQ is invited to perform at a Rugby World Cup 10th year anniversary Celebrations in Cape Town.

2005
July

They are invited to grace the occasion of Toyota Tsam Shipping Ceremony in Durban.

2005
September

SSQ performs at a 9th National Public Service training Conference at Caesars Palace.
SSQ performs at Transvaal University of Technology for the faculty of Engineering Gala Dinner.
They perform in Zambia for an Exclusive Colonial Theme Dinner.

2005
October

They perform at Poschefstroom Kloof Mines for Goldfields Awards.

2005
December

E TV asks the SSQ to come and perform at their Christmas Party at the Castel Kyalami.

SSQ performs The Christmas Carols with Soweto Gospel Choir at the Mandela Square in Sandton.   

2004
December
SSQ performs at an exclusive function in Pretoria for the relaunch of the Blue Train.

2004
November
Daimler Chrysler South Africa, books SSQ for two weeks to perform at her production plants launch functions. These functions are graced by the presence of senior management and board members.

2004
October
BMW South Africa and SSQ once again revive that unique relationship of supporting each other by exchanging skills. This relationship dates back to 1996 with BMW Zebra Cars donated by BMW SA. Now and again, SSQ perms for BMW.

2004
September
SSQ is invited to tour internationally. These tours are in Switzerland and Spain. The two countries celebrate the 10th anniversary of South Africa’s democracy.

2004
May - March
SSQ performs at these countries: France (Unesco Cultural Festival), Algiers (10th Anniversary Celebration of SA’s first democracy), United States of America, Libya (10th year celebration of SA’s democracy), Mozambique (10th Anniversary Celebration of SA’s first democracy), Zambia and India (Showcase SA talent at world exhibition).

2004
February  
SSQ gets special invitation from the Swiss Embassy to perform in Pretoria for top Swiss Government officials visiting South Africa.

2003
September
SSQ celebrate their 25th Anniversary in the music industry with an outstanding performance featuring guest artists Vusi Mahlasela, Pops Mohamed, Umanji, Ballet Theatre Afrikan and other notable friends and fellow musicians that have grown with them over the years.

2003
September
Release their fifth album entitled OUR WORLD.

2003
April
By special request by the Presidents office, performed at the Presidential Sports Awards.

2003
March
SSQ were selected as the only artists to accompany Minister of Department of Enterprises to New York to Usher South Africa’s telecommunications company, Telkom when they were listed on the New York Stock Exchange.

2003
February
Performed to a global audience of over 1 billion at the ICC World Cup Cricket Opening Ceremony

2003
January
Mainline artists for four nights of the “Giant Steps” festival at Spier Wine Estate in Stellenbosch. Due to the success of these evenings, this has now become an annual event.

2002
Finished recording their fifth album. The album entitled “OUR WORLD’ is planned for release in 2003.

2002
December
Performed at various concerts on tour in Zimbabwe

2002
13 October
Performed to a standing ovation at the Otago Festival of the Arts in New Zealand.

2001
27 August
Release New Album – titled FOUR

2001
27 June – 24 August
The Soweto String Quartet honour their second invitation to tour the UK, only this time around they embark on their most extensive touring schedule to date. The ‘Rhythms of Africa Tour’ begins in Redditch and includes performances in Bradford, Greenwich, Canterbury, Cambridge and Chester amongst others, before participation at the WOMAD Festival in Reading. More performances in Harrow and Whitley Bay follow before SSQ work their way towards The Edinburgh Fringe Festival. Encompassing 31 towns and including over 50 performances, this is by far the biggest and busiest tour ever undertaken by the Soweto String Quartet.

2001
May/June
The Soweto String Quartet is in and out of the recording studio during this time, working on material for their new album.

2000
July/August
First Rhythm of Africa Tour during which SSQ play over 30 dates around the UK, earning rave reviews along the way.

1999
July
The Royal Concert Hall, Glasgow and Royal Albert Hall, London – Opening performances for Ladysmith Black Mambazo.

1999
April
5th Annual FNB South African Music Awards – MILLENNIA scoops Best Instrumental Album award as did their two previous albums ZEBRA CROSSING and RENAISSANCE.

1999
February & March
USA Tour with the Dance Theatre of Harlem

1998
7 December
CD Launch, Cape Grace Hotel, Cape Town – Soweto String Quartet host Cape Town launch of their third album, MILLENNIA and perform at four sold out shows at The Baxter Theatre.

1998
November
Soweto String Quartet release third album, MILLENNIA.

1998
15 – 19 September
The Baxter Theatre, Cape Town - The Soweto String Quartet with Vusi Mahlasela and Louis Mhlanga perform five full concert performances and one night for Earl Charles Spencer’s charity Lifeline/Childline. Six sold out shows.

1998
June
The Diana, Princess Of Wales, Tribute Concert at the Althorp Estate, England – Televised worldwide, this moving memorial concert saw Soweto String Quartet and label-mate, Vusi Mahlasela perform alongside such other superstars as Cliff Richard, Chris de Burgh, Duran Duran, The Lighthouse Family and Jimmy Ruffin.

The Royal Festival Hall, London – Three standing ovations.

1998
May
Dance Theatre Of Harlem at the Kennedy Centre, Washington – The Soweto String Quartet were honoured to be asked by the world-renowned dance group to play their own music for a ballet choreographed by the Dance Theatre and titled ‘South African Suite’ as part of the Kennedy Center’s ‘African Odyssey’ programme.

1998
April
South Africa’s Freedom Day, New York City - As special quests of the South African Consul-General, Sheila Sisulu, and The Soweto String Quartet commemorated this special day in a moving ceremony attended by many dignitaries. 

1997
1 November
The Nations Trust ‘Two Nations Concert’, Johannesburg Stadium – SSQ perform before HRH The Prince Of Wales, Prince Harry and President Nelson Mandela at this prestigious event raising much-needed funds to support micro enterprises that create real jobs for the unemployed youth of South Africa, focusing on musically collaborative development projects. A star-studded event - appearing on the bill with SSQ were The Spice Girls, Billy Ocean, Trevor Rabin and Jonathan Butler.

1997
October
The Prince’s Trust Presents the Commonwealth in Concert, Edinburgh, Scotland – SSQ were invited to perform before 62 Commonwealth Heads of State including heir to the British Throne, Prince Charles and British Prime Minister, Tony Blair.

1997
September
Blue Train Re-launch – Attended by President Nelson Mandela and his personal guests, including Quincy Jones, Naomi Campbell and Mia Farrow.

1997
26 April

3rd Annual FNB South African Music Awards, Civic Theatre – SSQ perform together with Vusi Mahlasela at the award ceremony and SSQ walk away with an award for Best Instrumental Performance for RENAISSANCE.

1997
February
State Opening Of Parliament – A great honour for the Soweto String Quartet, who performed for President Nelson Mandela at this historic event.

1996
November
Soweto String Quartet, release second album – RENAISSANCE.

1995
ZEBRA CROSSING earns three awards at the FNB 1995 South African Music Awards - Best Pop Album, Best New Group and Best Instrumental Performance.

1994
Soweto String Quartet, release their debut album – ZEBRA CROSSING.
The elections in 1994 turned everything around for SSQ – A true honour, SSQ perform at President Nelson Mandela’s inauguration.

A significant year in SSQ’s career indeed, 1994 also sees SSQ supporting Whitney Houston on her SA tour, as well as private appearances for Princess Anne and the maestro Lord Yehudi Menuhin.

1992
Soweto String Quartet, sign first recording deal with BMG Africa.

Albums to Date

Featuring

Joint Performances