Classics on Turf Maestro Kutlwano Masote Honoured at Roodepoort Theatre’s 45th Anniversary Walk of Fame

Classics on Turf Maestro Kutlwano Masote Honoured at Roodepoort Theatre’s 45th Anniversary Walk of Fame

Classics on Turf Maestro Kutlwano Masote Honoured at Roodepoort Theatre’s 45th Anniversary Walk of Fame
Johannesburg, South Africa — 01 October 2025. Classics on Turf proudly celebrates its Head of Music, Musical Curator and resident Maestro, Kutlwano Masote, who has been selected as one of 33 cultural icons and institutions unveiled at the new Stars of Roodepoort Walk of Fame during the Roodepoort Theatre’s 45th Anniversary celebrations.
These legendary artists and organisations were recognised for using their artistic craft to illuminate stages both locally and globally, and for enriching South Africa’s national identity through their creative excellence.
The Roodepoort Theatre marked its milestone anniversary with a black-tie gala titled Celebrating Iconic Stars & Golden Chronicles on Heritage Day, 25 September 2025. The evening featured music, dance and theatre performances, the launch of the permanent Walk of Fame installation and an awards ceremony honouring long-serving staff members. Hosted by Joburg City Theatres and directed by acclaimed theatre-maker James Ngcobo, the celebration highlighted the theatre’s rich legacy as a cultural cornerstone in Johannesburg.
Born in Soweto to renowned conductor Michael Masote and raised in a musically diverse family, Kutlwano refined his artistry through advanced studies at the University of Zurich’s Winterthur Conservatory in Switzerland. He has built a career as a cellist, conductor, composer, and arts administrator, and has worked with most of South Africa’s major orchestras. Internationally, his career includes conducting engagements in Europe, notably a celebrated appearance with the Lucerne Festival Strings where he showcased South African repertoire to critical acclaim.

Beyond the stage, Masote has composed for projects such as The Arch, a documentary on Archbishop Desmond Tutu, and continues to enjoy a career as a radio broadcaster for over three decades, harmonising the airwaves of SA FM with Weekend Sundowner Classics every Saturday and Sunday afternoon. Kutlwano has recently added another string to his bow with his memoir Imperfect Harmony, currently in production. At Classics on Turf, Masote curates and leads performances that bring together families, friends, business associates, communities and artists. A particularly moving moment came in 2023 when he conducted a special performance with his son Pendo — a heartfelt celebration of heritage and family through music. In 2024, he curated a commanding performance in honour of President Thabo Mbeki in collaboration with the legendary Don Laka. “Kutlwano’s selection for the Stars of Roodepoort is a proud moment for all of us at Classics on Turf,” said Mqondisi Gumede, Event Director of Classics on Turf. “It celebrates not only his personal journey but also the vision of making classical music part of everyday South African life. The quality of his musical curation, leadership and direction has been instrumental in the rapid rise of Classics on Turf.” Masote’s influence extends beyond the stage. He has served in leadership roles at the SAMRO Foundation and the Arts and Culture Trust and has worked tirelessly to open doors to classical music participation for young musicians across the country. This recognition shines a light on Masote’s achievements, while also reflecting the mission of Classics on Turf — to honour the past, celebrate the present, and inspire the future of South African music. Media Contact: Loraine Sibanda Publicist, Classics on Turf loraine@76media.co.za ‪+27 73 0210 533