Release date: 8 September 2025
Written by: Naomi Geyer Stolze
Artist: Monica Mhangwana
Pianist: Paul Ferreira
Production & Photograps: @freezefrxme
Location: WS Pianos Showroom – South Africa
Link:https://www.facebook.com/share/p/C4a2fgpJwaqFU3Jp/?mibextid=xfxF2i
🎶 Artist Feature: Monica Mhangwana — A Voice Rooted in Africa, Resounding Across the World
From the heart of Pretoria to stages across the globe, Monica Mhangwana is a South African mezzo-soprano whose voice defies boundaries — blending classical technique with African soul, jazz nuance, and entrepreneurial spirit.
Raised in Pretoria, South Africa’s capital city, Monica began her formal musical training at the University of Pretoria under the tutelage of the renowned Dr. Hanli Stapela. Her passion for voice quickly distinguished her as one of the country’s most versatile rising talents. She further refined her craft through masterclasses with Professor Albie van Schalkwyk and Kobie van Rensburg, exploring the intricacies of both Western classical and contemporary African repertoire.
In 2020, Monica earned international recognition when she was awarded the Smith Award Prize for Mezzo-Sopranos in the Voices of South Africa International Opera Singing Competition — a platform that celebrates and elevates world-class African vocalists. But her musical identity transcends genre: Monica moves effortlessly between African art song, jazz, opera, and modern cross-genre performance, challenging the limits of tradition while honouring her roots.
Throughout her career, Monica has collaborated with some of South Africa’s finest artists, including Zonke, Lloyd Cele, and Ian von Memerty, and has taken her music to audiences in France, Namibia, Amsterdam, and beyond. Her performances are marked by emotional depth, technical precision, and a magnetic stage presence that captivates audiences across cultures.
🎹 A Shared Moment at WS Pianos
On 23 April 2021, Monica stepped into the WS Pianos South Africa showroom — a space where craftsmanship and artistry meet — to collaborate with pianist Paul Ferreira in a powerful creative session. The shoot captured more than just music; it reflected the shared values of excellence, heritage, and artistry that both Monica and Werner & Naomi Stolze hold dear.
The Stolzes, founders of WS Pianos USA and formerly WS Pianos South Africa, were honored to host Monica for this unique collaboration. “She carries her culture and craft with such dignity,” said Naomi. “It was a privilege to witness her energy and expression fill our space.”
🌍 A Story That Resonates Across Borders
Now, as WS Pianos opens its new chapter in the United States, we carry with us the memory of Monica’s voice reverberating through our South African showroom — a reminder of why we do what we do. We honour not just instruments, but the artists who breathe life into them.
Monica Mhangwana represents what’s possible when talent meets discipline, when culture informs creativity, and when music becomes a bridge between past and future — South Africa and the world.
To follow Monica’s journey, you can explore her performances on social media and stay connected to her ongoing projects. She is not only a voice to listen to — she’s a story to be heard.
Special thanks to Werner & Naomi Stolze for curating the space where music and legacy meet.