Standard Bank Joy Of Jazz Returns To Sandton In 2023

The rhythmic heartbeat of jazz is set to fill the air once again as the highly anticipated 2023 Standard Bank Joy of Jazz returns to Sandton.

This premier African jazz festival promises two exhilarating days of music and celebration on 29 and 30 September 2023 at the Sandton Convention Centre (SCC).
With an impressive line-up of headlining jazz stars from around the world, this year’s event is set to be an unforgettable experience for music lovers to ‘Feel the Jazz, Everywhere!’
Throughout the festival, four main stages will host an array of talented artists, carefully curated to create an atmosphere of musical reconnection and shared joy.
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The 2023 Standard Bank Joy of Jazz promises to be a celebration of music, culture, and unity, bringing together jazz enthusiasts from near and far to experience the magic of jazz in all its diverse forms.

The Dinaledi Stage boasts the incredible Grammy Award winner and cross-over musician, Swiss harpist Andreas Vollenweider, accompanied by Friends Ayanda Nhlangothi, Vusi Nhlapo, and Vuyo Tshuma on vocals, presenting the Mzansi version of the grand doowop tradition with their unique flair. Joining them on the Grand Stage are the marvelous trumpeter, composer, and multi-band leader Marcus Wyatt, and the guitar maestro hailing from KwaZulu-Natal, Ernie Smith.

The Conga Stage is graced by another Grammy Award winner, pianist, and composer Robert Glasper, along with a league of contemporary jazz giants exploring various musical genres. Casual listeners and jazz connoisseurs alike will be enthralled by Alexander Beets’ Quintet, blending swing, ballads, standards, and originals with contemporary jazz verve.

The festival also pays tribute to legends of jazz, with guitarist Billy Monama honoring Allen Kwela, joined by special guests Titi Luzipo and Mimi Mtshali. The Hugh Masekela Band, featuring Leeroy Sauls, Godfrey Mgcina, Fana Zulu, Cameron Ward Johan Mthethwa, Sydney Mavundla, Percy Mbonani, Mluleki Chuma, and Selema Mokgothi on vocals, will offer a moving tribute to the late great trumpeter.

Additionally, music lovers can look forward to captivating performances by Zoe Modiga, the gifted composer and bassist Carlo Mombelli, and the high-powered tribute to Johnny Dyani by bassist and composer Herbie Tsoaeli, featuring contemporary bass kings Viwe Mkizwana and Dalusi Ndlazi.

The festival promises to turn the page on the interruption of the pandemic years, providing a celebration and tribute to the city of Johannesburg and its thriving jazz culture. Image: Joy of Jazz

For those seeking a broader musical spectrum, the Mbira Stage presents an exciting lineup, including Zonke, Buhle Bendalo of the Soil fame, Max-Hoba, and a tribute to Jabu Khanyile. Soulful singers like Ami Faku, Langa Mavuso, Samthing Soweto, and Simphiwe Dana will also grace the stage.

The Lounge Jazz Market offers a lighter and more adventurous musical experience, with 4EVERJAZZ hosted by Nothemba Madumo, Thomas Dyani, Marumo Femme with Mammello and Kopano, and talented DJs like DJ Happy J, Di Castro, and the renowned DJ Kenzhero Experience featuring Melo B Jones on vocals, Drum Machine, and Me-Ko on Keys and Trumpet. Excitement and anticipation surround the return of Breakfast At Khujos to the Standard Bank Joy of Jazz, providing a uniquely delicious musical experience.

Mantwa Chinoamadi, the Festival Producer, expresses her enthusiasm for this year’s event, stating that it allows them to reconnect with patrons and jazz lovers with even greater passion and excitement.

The Joy Of Jazz Festival tickets are available at Computicket and Checkers outlets. With a range of ticket options, including Day Passes and Weekend Passes, attendees can experience the best of jazz music in Africa’s wealthiest square mile.

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