Birth

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in South Africa

 

Pumeza Matshikiza is a South African soprano who has made a name for herself in the world of classical music. Born on September 28, 1979, in Cape Town, South Africa, Pumeza grew up in the township of Khayelitsha. Her father was a truck driver, and her mother was a domestic worker. Despite their modest means, Pumeza's parents encouraged her to pursue her passion for music. Pumeza's love for singing began at an early age. She sang in her church choir and later joined the Cape Town Opera Chorus. In 2002, she was awarded a scholarship to study at the South African College of Music at the University of Cape Town. She graduated with a Bachelor of Music degree in 2006. After completing her studies, Pumeza joined the Cape Town Opera Company as a full-time member. She quickly rose through the ranks and was soon performing lead roles in productions such as "Carmen," "La Bohème," and "The Magic Flute." Her performances were praised for their emotional depth and technical skill. In 2010, Pumeza was invited to audition for the Royal Opera House in London. She impressed the judges with her powerful voice and was offered a place in the prestigious Jette Parker Young Artists Programme. This programme provides young singers with the opportunity to work with some of the world's leading opera professionals and to perform on the Royal Opera House stage. During her time at the Royal Opera House, Pumeza performed in a number of productions, including "La Bohème," "Don Giovanni," and "The Marriage of Figaro." She also made her debut at the Glyndebourne Festival Opera in 2013, playing the role of Mimi in "La Bohème." Pumeza's international career took off in 2014 when she released her debut album, "Voice of Hope." The album features a mix of classical arias and traditional South African songs. It received critical acclaim and was nominated for a Classic BRIT Award. Since then, Pumeza has performed at some of the world's most prestigious venues, including the Royal Opera House, the Berlin State Opera, and the Paris Opera. She has also collaborated with a number of renowned conductors, including Sir Simon Rattle and Daniel Barenboim. In 2016, Pumeza was awarded the Order of Ikhamanga by the South African government. This is the highest honour that can be bestowed upon a South African citizen for achievements in the arts, culture, literature, music, journalism, and sport. Pumeza continues to inspire audiences around the world with her powerful voice and her commitment to promoting South African music. She is a true ambassador for her country and for the world of classical music.

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