Colin was born on 2 September 1941 in Cape Town. He studied music at the Royal Academy of Music and the Royal School of Church Music in London and later joined the staff there as Headquarters’ Choirmaster. He conducted his own choral society and orchestra in addition to full time secondary school teaching. After returning to South Africa in 1989 he was appointed to the music staff of the Wits University and as a senior music presenter / producer and newsreader at the SABC. He was appointed conductor of the Johannesburg Bach choir in 1990 and conducted many choral / orchestral concerts together with the SABC Symphony Orchestra. He joined Radio Veritas in 2004 as presenter of Colin’s Classics a daily classical music programme. He said it was a privilege for him to present a three-hour live programme every Sunday, Sunday Matins - a good preparation for Sunday Mass. Colin also enjoyed presenting the weekday breakfast show, Matins where he interacted with both the young and old with affection and joy. His favourite phrase, “Bless your cotton socks!”

We send our deepest condolences to Colin’s family, to the various musicians and broadcasters whose lives he touched and to all who knew and loved him. Colin will be sadly missed and deeply mourned by all of us at Radio Veritas. We have lost a friend, a good colleague and a gifted broadcaster.

Eternal rest grant to him O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him. May his dear soul rest in peace.

Humbly yours,
Khanya Litabe
Station Manager (Radio Veritas)