Stacey van Schalkwyk - director, composition, flute

Virgil Matrass - composition, piano and keyboard

Nhlanhla Xipu - violin

Yashin Naidoo - composition, bass

Pete Glover - drums

Photos - Yashin Naidoo

PentaFusion has established itself as a rising powerhouse of South African jazz-fusion, with accolades underscoring both their artistic mastery and emotional depth. Critics have consistently praised their “virtuoso” performances, lauding the band for delivering “fresh musical ideas” that resonate with their audiences. This creative prowess has earned them prestigious recognition; PentaFusion was awarded the Standard Bank Bronze Ovation Award for their evocative debut performance of Fragments in 2022, followed by a second Ovation Award in 2023 for Wilderness. Their latest production, A Musician’s Guide to the Galaxy, took the National Arts Festival by storm in 2024, garnering rave reviews and securing a third consecutive Ovation Award.

Founded in 2022, PentaFusion brings together a diverse blend of celebrated musicians and rising talent from Gqeberha and Makhanda, fostering a cross-generational synergy that infuses their music with both tradition and innovation. Their signature style is a distinct fusion of jazz, with elements of progressive rock, and symphonic metal, merging virtuosic instrumentation with intricate compositions. Their music is a blend of complex rhythms, emotive melodies, and the raw energy of fusion with the sophisticated harmony of jazz.

Stacey van Schalkwyk (flute/composer/director)

Stacey is a multifaceted creative, working as a flautist, composer, arranger, researcher, and educator. Nearly two decades ago, she co-founded the band Mosaic, performing at prestigious events such as Nelson Mandela's birthday celebrations, the International Jazz Educators Conference in Atlanta, the African Economic Forum's Heads of State, and the Commonwealth Cultural Exchange Conference. She has collaborated with esteemed musicians like Deepak Ram, Lex Futshane, Mageshen Naidoo, Brendan Jury, and the KZN Philharmonic Orchestra. Her debut recording appeared on Gathering Forces Vol. 2 alongside Darius Brubeck, Deepak Ram, and Airto Moreira. Following her son’s birth, Stacey took a 20-year hiatus from performing. She returned to the stage in 2019, co-founding PentaFusion and resuming her roles as a composer, arranger, flautist, and educator. Since her return, Stacey has premiered and performed her compositions in South Africa, and at The National Arts Festival, earning multiple Standard Bank Bronze Ovation Awards. Her work with PentaFusion has garnered widespread acclaim for its innovative sound and compelling performances.

Virgil Matrass (piano/composer)

Virgil is a professional jazz pianist, composer and arranger who seeks to inspire young, aspirant musicians to reach their full potential. He studied towards a BMus at Stellenbosch University and transferred to Nelson Mandela University where he completed the degree. He is a member of the well-known vocal acapella group, The Creed, who released their debut album in November 2019. He is also actively involved with the popular Erle Felkers’ Big Band. Virgil resides in Makhanda, Eastern Cape where he is Head of the DSG Junior Music School and the Choir Conductor. He also teaches class music, piano and voice and is the Jazz piano and vocal lecturer and accompanist at Rhodes University. Virgil’s extensive knowledge and experience of jazz and contemporary music led to the success of his students whom he has entered for Rockschool examinations.

Nhlanhla Xipu (violin)

Nhlanhla a renowned violinist from Johannesburg, is a prominent figure in South Africa's classical music scene. With a versatile repertoire, Nhlanhla has graced the stages of esteemed orchestras across the nation, including the Eastern Cape Philharmonic, Free State Symphony Orchestra, Bochabela String Orchestra, Mzansi Classical Players, and the Buffalo City Metropolitan Orchestra. Beyond the classical realm, Nhlanhla has seamlessly blended genres, collaborating with jazz bands such as Variety, FiddleSaxStics, and Imbumba Orchestra. A multi-instrumentalist, Nhlanhla's musical prowess extends to the saxophone, marimba, and bass guitar, demonstrating a boundless passion for music. Having studied under the guidance of Ms. Denise Sutton at the University of Free State, Nhlanhla currently serves as the Head of Strings at the Diocesan School for Girls, shaping the next generation of musicians with expertise and dedication.

Yashin Naidoo (bass/composer)

Yashin is a rising creative force known for his exceptional talent across photography, filmmaking, music production, bass performance, and education. His work has earned him multiple accolades, highlighting his diverse expertise and artistic vision. In 2019, he co-founded Point of Humanness, contributing as producer, cinematographer, and photographer. In 2022, he filmed and produced the short film Dying to Be Human, which featured in the Lift-Off Sessions Film Festival. His portfolio also features music videos for prominent South African artists, including the renowned pianist Paul Hanmer. As a bass player, Yashin co-founded PentaFusion, while his versatility extends across genres like metal, fusion, and rock. He has performed in numerous South African productions and at the National Arts Festival.

Pete Glover (drums)

Pete is a proficient and promising musician worth noting. During Pete's undergrad years, he played in three bands: The Rhodes Jazz Band, Tonix, and Sfortzando. They performed at various events including the National Arts Festival. After graduating, Pete started a band playing mostly original music in local venues such as the Acoustic Cafe and Organic Live. He also played in other local bands such as ICala, Winternag and Stone House. Pete teaches drums at St Andrew's Prep and helps facilitate various play productions and concerts.