Ncumisa Garishe

Ncumisa is a versatile South African classical and operatic singer from Mdantsane, Eastern Cape, with a strong affinity for the broader world of performance arts in theatre spaces. She began her academic journey with a Bachelor of Commerce degree from the University of Fort Hare, graduating in 2014. While completing her commerce studies, her deep passion for music led her to the University of Cape Town (UCT), where she earned three music qualifications—including a postgraduate degree awarded with distinction and recognition on the Dean’s Merit List.

Ncumisa has performed a wide range of classical and operatic repertoire, both as a soloist and ensemble member. Her roles in collaboration with the UCT Opera School and Cape Town Opera include Julietta in Bellini’s I Capuleti e i Montecchi, Elisetta in Cimarosa’s Il matrimonio segreto, Lauretta in Puccini’s Gianni Schicchi, and Uyinene in a contemporary South African opera exploring themes of gender-based violence. In 2021, her vocal artistry was recognized with second runner-up and the Audience Prize at The Shock Foundation Prize for Singing Competition.

In 2022, she received a Special Award Certificate from the Manhattan International Music Competition, a notable milestone in her growing international profile. Her artistic journey has taken her to countries such as Greece, Germany, Switzerland, Chile, the USA, and Italy—offering rich opportunities for cross-cultural exchange and performance.

Alongside her classical training and performance work, Ncumisa is drawn to the expressive possibilities of theatre and is passionate about blending music and dramatic storytelling in live performance contexts. She is also developing a mentorship initiative aimed at supporting young South African musicians as they navigate the early stages of their careers.

With a strong foundation in classical technique and a bold theatrical spirit, Ncumisa continues to shape a vibrant international career rooted in artistic excellence, collaboration, and cultural storytelling