Asakhe Cuntsulana

Asakhe Cuntsulana is a visionary musician from kuGatyane, Eastern Cape, South Africa who blends African indigenous sounds with jazz and classical influences. Asakhe curates sonic experiences for local and international audiences, event organizers and schools. His journey began in the school choir and evolved through training at Rhodes University, mastering instruments like the Adungu (Ugandan Harp), Kalimba (thumb piano), and uHadi (Xhosa bow harp).

His recent two-week trip to Norway in August 2024 showcased African musical traditions, fostering cross-cultural dialogue. He believes in the power of music to unite people, elicit memory and ultimately restore people to their core purpose.

He has performed at festivals such as the Grahamstown National Arts Festival, Umtiza Festival, Cap Classique Festival merging traditional rhythms with contemporary elements. As founder of IThala leAfrika, he promotes cultural enrichment and preserves indigenous knowledge through music and art.

Asakhe uses music as a tool to facilitate wellness in both private and public as part of the KOKO Playback Theatre performing at International Playback Conference and Drama for Life Conference and Festival in 2024 with a project entitled "Songs of the Table". The project celebrated shared stories and connections, blending music and conversation to create a rich cultural and artistic experience in which artists nurture their creative abilities beyond limitations.