Feel it, it is here - Cape Town International Jazz Festival hits the city

The wait is finally over!

The anticipation that has gripped jazz enthusiasts and festival-goers alike is set to come to fruition this weekend, with the much-anticipated Cape Town International Jazz Festival (CTIJF). 

Hosted at the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC), the festival is ready to light up the city with an impressive roster of talent that promises unforgettable performances and exceptional experiences.

This year’s festival promises to be bigger, bolder, and more electrifying than ever, capping a countdown that has built phenomenal excitement across music lovers and festival-goers alike. 

Fans can look forward to an impressive line-up featuring 33 artists, including 10 international sensations, performing on four stages over the two nights. 

The festival’s stages will come alive with captivating performances from luminaries including the multi-talented Black Coffee who joins forces with acclaimed jazz pianist Nduduzo Makhathini in a special orchestral collaboration, renowned vocalist Thandiswa Mazwai, jazz trumpeter Masego, and South African soul sensation Lira, among many others.

As part of Africa’s Grandest Gathering, the festival not only showcases remarkable performances but also elevates the hospitality experience to new heights. 

Attendees can indulge in exclusive offerings crafted specifically to enhance comfort and lavishness. 

Beyond mere amenities, the festival provides a perfect platform for corporate networking and social interactions - an essential highlight for business leaders seeking to entertain special clients in a vibrant atmosphere.

A standout area at this year’s festival is the Rosies stage, designed to offer an intimate acoustic experience that will resonate deeply with true jazz aficionados. 

This unique venue strips performance back to its purest form, fostering a close connection between artists and audiences. 

"Rosies has become a space of reverence - for the artists, for the audience, and for the music itself," said Lindsay Rhoda, talent manager of the festival. 

Key performances on this stage will feature incredible acts such as Plurism, Linda Sikhakhane, Nomfundo Xaluva, and the Kyle Shepherd Trio - all promising to deliver a sound experience unparalleled in their acoustic brilliance. 

Festival-goers can immerse themselves in the essence of jazz for just R30 per show at Rosies - an opportunity to witness artistry in its unfiltered form. 

Each performance here is not merely a concert but a celebration of the genre that has transcended time and boundaries.

The festival enriches its offerings further with free music masterclasses slated for today and tomorrow from 9am to 1:35pm, hosted at the CTICC. 

Industry giants, including Bombay Lights and British jazz-funk legends Incognito, will share their musical journeys and philosophies, turning these sessions into experiential learning opportunities for aspiring musicians and enthusiasts.

"These masterclasses aren’t just lessons - they represent CTIJF’s commitment to education, access, and excellence," said Craig Parks, the curator of these sessions.

Tickets are still available at Ticketmaster.co.za, and more information can be accessed through capetownjazzfest.com or by following @officialcapetownjazzfest on social media for exclusive content and behind-the-scenes moments.

Cape Argus