Telkom Powers the Possibilities of Classical Music and Sport as Presenting Partner of Classics on Turf

Telkom Powers the Possibilities of Classical Music and Sport as Presenting Partner of Classics on Turf

Johannesburg, South Africa – 22 September 2025 — Classics on Turf, the bold and innovative South African event series that breathes new life into classical music, is proud to announce Telkom as its Presenting Partner until 2027.

This inspired partnership marks a powerful alignment between two brands rooted in heritage and driven by transformation.

Telkom, a brand with a heritage of connection, is also stepping boldly into a new chapter—one that is future-facing, inclusive, and electrifying in its intent. Presented through the revitalised brand proposition "Possible begins here", this new era sees the union with Classics on Turf unlock new dimensions of cultural resonance, digital sophistication, and experiential depth.

A Heritage of Inspiration: The Power of Legacy

Classics on Turf is inspired by the life story of its patron and founder, Zwelibanzi Mntambo, who was first introduced to classical music as a schoolboy in Naledi, Soweto. The frequent sight of musicians from the Soweto Symphony Orchestra carrying cellos, violins, and other orchestral instruments, as well as attending live performances, left an indelible mark on him. That orchestra was founded and conducted by Michael Masote, one of South Africa’s pioneering musical figures.

In a deeply poetic full-circle moment, Michael Masote’s son, Kutlwano Masote, now a maestro conductor and cello virtuoso, serves as Classics on Turf’s musical curator. At the December 2023 edition of the event, Kutlwano conducted a performance featuring his own son, Pendo Masote. The moment transcended words—a generational tribute to heritage, excellence, and continuity, told most powerfully through music.

Similarly, Telkom has been a mainstay of South African life for generations. Its modern evolution began in 1991, becoming the backbone of South African connectivity ever since. Just as Classics on Turf draws strength from its artistic legacy, so too does Telkom innovate from a foundation of cultural relevance and national trust.

A Natural Harmony: Where Heritage Meets Horizon

At its core, Classics on Turf is a celebration of beauty, excellence, and belonging. It brings together business leaders, colleagues, families, and friends in shared moments of music, sport, and storytelling. With Telkom’s support, the series is poised to scale its ambition and deepen its impact. The partnership expands access, enhances the audience experience, and introduces new creative possibilities—both onsite and online.

Bringing Possibility to Life — On Stage, On the Greens, and Online

Through this partnership, Telkom will continue activating at national events until 2027, beginning with the Cape Town edition on 31 October at Steenberg Golf Club and Norval Foundation. The Johannesburg edition will follow on 14 November at Killarney Country Club, while dates for the Durban event, scheduled for 2026, will be announced in due course.

A Partnership of Purpose

Together, Classics on Turf and Telkom are reframing what’s possible:

• For audiences hungry for meaningful, beautiful experiences

• For brands that value authentic engagement and cultural depth

• For South Africa, where music, sport, and connection can fuel collective imagination

“At Telkom, we believe that possibility is unlocked when people are meaningfully connected, to opportunity, and to the richness of our shared culture. Our partnership with Classics on Turf beautifully embodies this belief. It merges heritage and innovation, honouring the timeless power of classical music while reimagining how people experience it in contemporary, inclusive spaces.

As we continue our journey to refresh and redefine Telkom as a future-facing, human-centred brand, we see this collaboration as more than sponsorship, it is a celebration of what becomes possible when creativity, technology, and culture come together. Classics on Turf opens new doors of access and inspiration, and we are proud to walk through them alongside all South Africans,” said Gugu Mthembu, Chief Marketing Officer, Telkom.

Media Contact:
Mqondisi Gumede
Event Director, Classics on Turf
📧 mqondisi@theomg.co.za
📞 +27 82 378 4761