Ofentse Pitse, a 31-year-old South African conductor from Mabopane, is breaking barriers as the first black woman to own and run her own orchestra. She is known for producing unique shows that blend classical music with popular South African genre, amapiano. Pitse’s love for music started at a young age when her pastor encouraged her to play an instrument, leading her to classical music, choral, and opera. By the age of 25, she had started her own youth choir and later formed a 40-piece orchestra with classical musicians.
Pitse’s latest project involves reimagining amapiano songs, such as Kabza De Small’s “Nana Thula”, in a classical opera setting. She believes that combining classically trained musicians with those who play by ear can create a powerful and unique musical experience. The show features some of the biggest amapiano hits performed by Pitse’s ensemble, showcasing her ability to lead with passion and emotion, rather than sternness. Her career in classical music was not originally her dream, but she views it as a gift and a way to inspire young people and women of color.
Despite her success, Pitse faces pressure and scrutiny as a young black woman in a white male-dominated industry. She often has to prove herself and be overly prepared for any challenges that may come her way. Pitse draws inspiration from Beyonce, admiring the singer’s attention to detail and work ethic. Like Beyonce, Pitse dedicates extensive time and effort to perfecting her shows and creating a memorable experience for her audience.
Pitse’s ultimate goal is to create her own body of work that transcends boundaries and reaches a wide audience, including those who may have never experienced classical music before. She aims to make music that appeals to both classical music enthusiasts and newcomers to the genre. With a passion for music and a dedication to excellence, Pitse continues to push boundaries and break stereotypes in the music industry. By blending classical and modern genres, she is paving the way for a new and innovative approach to music that resonates with audiences worldwide.
