From Gugulethu to the Metropolitan Opera: Lonwabo Mose's journey

In the heart of Gugulethu, the vibrant township near Cape Town, a young man's dream is about to take flight. Lonwabo Mose, a 25-year-old bass-baritone, is on the cusp of an extraordinary journey as he prepares to take his talents to the grand stages of the world. His rise from humble beginnings to the prestigious Metropolitan Opera is a testament to his resilience and exceptional talent.

Born to a family that struggled to make ends meet, Lonwabo's passion for music ignited in his youth. Growing up in Cala in the Eastern Cape and later Gugulethu, he found solace in choral singing, which eventually introduced him to the operatic genre. His musical journey found a supportive turning point when he was accepted as a student by the renowned voice coach Juan Burgers, who has been instrumental in launching the careers of countless talented singers.

At Cape Town Opera, Lonwabo has made a name for himself with standout performances in productions such as Il Barbiere di Siviglia, Aida, Lucia di Lammermoor, and Tosca. His incredible vocal abilities and stage presence have garnered critical acclaim, solidifying his status as one of the rising stars of the opera world.

Recently, Lonwabo participated in the prestigious Hans Gabor Belvedere International Singing Competition in Switzerland, where his hard work paid off as he made it to the finals, competing with only twelve other talented vocalists. This experience opened doors to significant opportunities, including a contract with the Metropolitan Opera. In December, he will join their Lindeman Young Artist Program, an elite training initiative designed to nurture the next generation of operatic talent. In addition, he has received promising offers from the Vienna State Opera and Houston Opera, solidifying his emerging international career.

Lonwabo's journey into this new chapter is fraught with challenges. As the primary breadwinner for a household of four adults, he shoulders significant responsibilities. As he prepares for his new life in New York City, he faces the daunting task of securing financial support to cover his living expenses until his first payment arrives. The harsh New York winter adds to the urgency of his needs, necessitating warm clothing and essential tools for his craft—such as an iPad to receive music and director’s notes as per the requirements from the Met.

To celebrate this remarkable transition, Lonwabo will host a farewell recital on Sunday, 23 November, at 15:30 at Larmenier Village, located on Derry Street in Vredehoek. This recital not only marks his departure but also presents an opportunity for supporters to contribute to this exceptionally talented young performer. For those wishing to attend or extend their support, please contact Lewis Rabkin via email at [email protected] or WhatsApp at 082 860 0402.

As Lonwabo prepares to take the opera world by storm, he remains grounded in his beginnings and highly appreciative of the support from his community. With the right resources and encouragement, this young singer is poised to inspire others and make a lasting mark on the world of classical music.