Casper Esau II

Biography

# CASPER ESAU II ### South African Saxophonist | Vocalist | Composer | Producer | Bandleader

**Genre:** Smooth Jazz · R&B · Soul · Afro-Pop · Contemporary Pop · House

**Based in:** Johannesburg, South Africa

## Biography

Casper Esau II is a South African multi-instrumentalist, vocalist, composer, music producer, and live performer whose sound brings together the sophistication of jazz, the emotional depth of R&B and soul, and the infectious rhythms of contemporary African music. Known for his expressive saxophone playing, versatility, and distinctive musical approach, Casper has built a career that moves seamlessly between live performance, studio production, original songwriting, and musical collaboration.

Born and raised in Johannesburg, South Africa, Casper developed his musical foundation through formal training at the National School of the Arts, graduating in 2013, before furthering his studies in classical saxophone through the Johannesburg Youth Orchestra Company. His training helped shape a musical identity that balances technical discipline with creativity, versatility, and a strong sense of expression.

Over the years, Casper has established himself as a versatile musician, performing across diverse musical settings, from intimate lounge environments and high-end corporate events to major live productions, festivals, and international stages. His experience includes involvement in productions such as *The Voice South Africa* with Thatch Music, *Vodacom NXT LVL*, and *Emirates Pursuit of Jazz*, as well as a six-month residency with The Coda Jazz Katz in Bahrain. He has also performed at prominent South African music events and venues, building a reputation for adapting his sound to different audiences and musical environments.

As a session musician, Casper has contributed his musical talents to projects associated with established South African artists, including Mafikizolo, Mobi Dixon, Dr Duda of Mi Casa, Nichume, Keegan Martin, Bianca Le Grange, Liesl Pannikin, and Henry Philemon. These collaborations reflect his ability to move comfortably between genres and bring a distinctive instrumental voice to a variety of musical productions.

## A Signature Sound Beyond the Saxophone

While the saxophone remains central to his artistic identity, Casper's musical vision extends far beyond instrumental performance. His sound draws from Smooth Jazz, Contemporary R&B, Soul, Afro-Pop, Pop, and House, creating a musical experience that can be intimate and reflective one moment and energetic and danceable the next.

His saxophone performances are characterised by melodic phrasing, soulful expression, and an ability to complement the mood and energy of a song. Whether interpreting familiar contemporary hits or performing over modern electronic rhythms, he approaches music with an emphasis on feeling, atmosphere, and connection.

As a vocalist, songwriter, composer, and producer, Casper explores another dimension of his creativity. His original music gives listeners a more personal perspective on his artistic identity, allowing him to communicate through lyrics, vocal arrangements, compositions, and production as well as through his saxophone.

This broader creative direction is particularly evident in his compilation album, *TAKE A CLOSER LOOK*. The project brings together original works written and produced by Casper, including songs on which he takes the lead as a vocalist, alongside two covers featured in his collection of reinterpretations. The album invites listeners to discover the person behind the instrument and experience the emotional, introspective, and expressive side of his artistry.

His music explores the complexities of love, relationships, personal reflection, and human connection, balancing soulful melodies with contemporary production and accessible songwriting.

## KeyChange SA: Building a Musical Movement

In January 2020, Casper founded KeyChange SA, a Johannesburg-based live music project created to br

Performance options

• Solo

  2 × 45-minute sets

• Band

  2 × 45-minute sets

• Full band

  2 × 45-minute sets

• Trio

  2 × 45-minute sets

• DJ + live musician

  2 × 45-minute sets

• Vocalist

  2 × 45-minute sets

Gallery

Performance video