A feast of fine music at Standard Bank Joy of Jazz this weekend beckons
The two days concert September 27-28 which takes place at the Sandton Convention centre features both local and international talent including -Sibongile Mngoma, Tutu Puaone, Thandiswa Mazwai, Victor Masondo, Yvonne Chaka Chaka Chaka, Madhuva Madima and Mbeu (who will pay tribute to the late Oliver Mtukudzi), Karen Devroop, Nokukhanya Dlamini, and Iphupho L’kaBiko and Keiko Matsui.
By Edward Tsumele, CITYLIFE/ARTS Editor
This weekend is a jazz weekend in South Africa as all eyes are focused on this event and all roads starting from today, are leading to one thing that for two days makes South Africans relax and even forget about their daily struggles and differences. It is jazz time in South Africa as the enjoyable annual art show piece Standard Bank Joy of Jazz is here on Friday, September 27, 2024 and Saturday September 28, 2024 at the Sandton Convention Centre. This art feast sees some of the best talent from this country go toe to toe with their international counterparts.
This year, jazz lovers are indeed spoilt for choice as they will be able to sample the music of a wide range of South African artists, including-Sibongile Mngoma, Tutu Puaone, Thandiswa Mazwai, Victor Masondo, (performing with an orchestra), Darren English, the Standard bank Young Artist Award winner for 2023, Yvonne Chaka Chaka Chaka, Madhuva Madima and Mbeu (who will pay tribute to the late Oliver Mtukudzi), Karen Devroop, Nokukhanya Dlamini, and Iphupho L’kaBiko.
These are among the local talent that will show what they are made of artistically as they share the stage with international talent such as American Japanese pianist Keiko Matsui, whose return to the stages of the Joy of Jazz has made many people excited, I included, as I have come to enjoy her performances here over the years. For the rest of the international starts as well as some of the local top talent please refer to the programme that CITYLIFE/ARTS has published here.
However, there is something exciting that has just been confirmed as a last- minute addition to the festival and that is hugely talented South African folklore musician Pilani Bubu and Kujenga, who are set to grace the 25th Standard Bank Joy of Jazz Conga Stage. Bubu who is a globe trotter, who regularly takes her sophisticated sound to the rest of world is something else on stage. I have witnessed her magical stage presence and exceptional artistry recently at the recent Folklore Festival at Constitution Hill in Johannesburg, a festival that started two years ago and is fast becoming a solid brand on the local music scene.
“The 25th Standard Bank Joy of Jazz Festival is pleased to announce the addition of Pilani Bubu and Kujenga in this year’s lineup. These two accomplished artists will enrich the festival experience with their distinct styles and artistic fervour on the Conga Stage.
Pilani Bubu, a singer-songwriter, TV presenter, and creative entrepreneur, is celebrated for delivering soul-stirring performances. For the past decade, her enchanting melodies, remarkable vibrato, and lyrical depth have captivated audiences around the globe.
The inclusion of Kujenga’s infusion of traditional African rhythms with contemporary jazz has garnered widespread acclaim. Their addition to the lineup is anticipated to create memorable moments for jazz enthusiasts and music fanatics.
Sipario Deltones will not be participating in this year’s festival due to unforseen circumstances. “We are enthusiastic about Pilani Bubu and Kujenga’s participation, poised to contribute to the extraordinary ambiance that the continent’s Premier Festival is renowned for” said Mantwa Chinoamadi festival producer.
The festival is scheduled to take place from September 27th to 28th at the Sandton Convention Centre, offering a platform to celebrate the 25th anniversary of this esteemed event with jazz enthusiasts.
Details:
Festival Dates: 27 and 28 September 2024
Venue: Sandton International Convention Centre.
Tickets are available at Ticketmaster: Full Ticket Prices Are:
1x DAY PASS is = R1050
2xDAY PASS is = R1950