Donvino Prins

Donvino is a Cape Town–born saxophonist whose sound is as expansive as his journey.  Raised in Elsies River, he began performing professionally at the age of 15, cutting his teeth in local jazz and gospel bands before evolving into one of South Africa’s most versatile and sought-after horn players.

Equally at home in jazz, gospel, R&B and contemporary African sounds, Donvino’s playing is marked by warmth, precision and an unmistakable melodic sensibility. His career spans collaborations with an extraordinary range of local and international artists, including Jimmy Dludlu, Judith Sephuma, Victor Masondo, PJ Powers, Tony Schilder, Wanda Baloyi, Lloyd Cele, Hemelbesem, Jonathan Butler (as resident saxophonist), Ladysmith Black Mambazo, Tevin Campbell, CeCe Peniston, Kirk Whalum, Gerald Veasley and Bebe Winans.

His festival appearances in South Africa are numerous and legendary.  Internationally, he has toured extensively, performing in the USA, UK, Sweden, Dubai, Australia, Nigeria and Kenya, and features on numerous recorded projects.

As a solo artist, Donvino has released the single Worried and the album All The Way (2018), featuring Vicky Sampson. His signature live concept, #SaxyVibes, has become a celebrated showcase of collaboration and crossover, culminating in sold-out large-scale productions, including a major arena performance in 2019.

Beyond performance, Donvino is a mentor, collaborator and cultural contributor whose work reflects an open, holistic approach to music – one that invites connection, movement and deep listening. At Journey to Jazz 2026, audiences can expect a saxophone voice that is both grounded and soaring, intimate and expansive.