When you hear the words “jazz festival” you may think of internationally renowned festivals like the New Orleans Jazz Festival. But did you know that the Standard Bank Jazz Festival, which is held at National Arts Festival in Grahamstown, is the longest running jazz festival in South Africa? That’s why we think it deserves to be called Jazztown.
It brings together an exciting mix of artists from Africa and other parts of the world. And with an injection of hip young musicians, new audiences are being drawn to this innovative festival.
We are gathering a mesmerising collection of musicians from around the world who will spend a week generating jazz that has a unique Grahamstown energy, creativity and thrill. We look forward to hosting audiences who are keen on sharing this vibrant art form with us.
This year the Standard Bank Jazz Festival promises a fantastic selection with cutting-edge artists like Standard Bank Young Artist Award winners Siya Makuzeni and Afrika Mkhize Big Band, South African legends Simphiwe Dana, Caiphus Semenya, Ringo Madlingozi and Swing City as well as The Kiffness and Soul Housing Project with Bokani Dyer and Sakhile Moleshe, the voice behind Goldfish.
You can also catch artists such as Brazil’s Trio Corrente, Norway’s Petter Wettre, Austria’s Rabitsch & Pawlik and Holland’s Toon Roos.
If you are planning an adventure to the National Arts Festival look out for Standard Bank’s Late Night Jazz Café and enjoy great food, wine and hot jazz collaborations.
Tickets are available online from the National Arts Festival.
The National Arts Festival programme is available at select Standard Bank branches in South Africa. Click here to find out more.