Fondly labelled as ‘Africa’s Grandest Gathering’, the 21st annual Cape Town International Jazz Festival returns at the finale of this March and proudly hosts a star-studded, local and international line up, undiscovered talent, and audiences from all around the globe. Recognised as the fourth largest jazz festival in the world, and the largest music event in Sub-Saharan Africa, the CTIJF presents five stages with more than 40 performances over two nights in the heart of South Africa, at the Cape Town International Convention Centre.

Since 2000, the festival has become the ultimate event for jazz-lovers to experience, with past music Icons who performed including Herbie Hancock, Spyro Gyra, Stanley Clarke, Chaka Khan, Lauryn Hill, En Vogue, Angie Stone, Erykah Badu, Incognito, and the Gypsy Kings just to name a few. Chief operating officer and festival director Billy Domingo shares: “Over 20 unforgettable years, we have brought artists of only the highest calibre to Cape Town. With our experience in providing a platform for jazz excellence, Festinos can expect an unforgettable celebration with only the finest performances at the 2020 Festival. Festinos have discovered some amazing musical talents at CTIJF over the years, and we will continue to bring the very best talent to Cape Town for our 21st celebration.”

Jazz historically originated in the late 19th and early 20th centuries in African-American communities in New Orleans, a development of swing and blue. With the launch of this festival in 2000, a commemoration of the activism and history of jazz was introduced, showcasing the vibrant, colourful music and atmosphere across the Atlantic. Music was of particular importance during the apartheid, allowing freedom of expression and an outlet from the brutality and oppression which many faced. Today, the festival aims to honour and respect those icons and artists of the past, whilst introducing new faces amongst the celebrated ones, sharing in music that has been transformed from protests to celebrations.

This year, the international line-up of musicians including home town jazz icon, Jonathan Butler as well as renowned artists such as Jacob Collier (UK), Elementaal (India/South Africa), and PJ Morton (USA), alongside various acts from South Africa including Lira, Lady Zamar, Ndlovu Youth Choir, and so many more. For the first time, CTIJF is rewarding their festinos with reduced ticket prices, permitting savings of R291 on the weekend passes and R201 on day passes, in comparison to last year’s prices. The passes are definitely worth the price, considering the symphony of jazz artists performing – not only with traditional trumpets and saxophones, as the event features a showcase of contemporary music too, transforming the festival into more of an all-rounder!

In former years, the mission of the festival directors has been to introduce jazz to mainstream audiences in South Africa. And with a growing audience of over 35,000 fans, I think it’s safe to say that they’ve been incredibly successful. Now, however, it’s not just about the music, as the festival highlights the sophistication of jazz as a lifestyle, rather than simply a music taste. For jazz lovers and newbies alike, the festival hosts opportunities ranging for a mix of preferences. Whilst the performances themselves diffuse the sensational sounds of jazz throughout the heart of South Africa, the festive atmosphere is added to by the city’s plethora of wineries, fine dining restaurants and hotel-boutiques. Guests are also attracted to the workshops hosted by the festival, one renowned fixture being a photojournalism workshop which provides guidance for ambitious photographers, focusing on documenting the concerts and portraiture of the artists.

The cultural emissary that could one day become the world’s most prominent jazz event, is livened by the picturesque city of Cape Town itself, the stunning views, the friendly people, and the countless opportunities for food and drink lovers. Local acts perform on the waterfront, a beautiful view of which can be enjoyed from the Cape Wheel, or the cable car ride up to Table Mountain. Continuing to grow with popularity, the jazz festival welcomes international visitors to appreciate the beauty of South Africa, as well as the beauty of jazz itself, especially in March where the long, sunny days, attract a one of a kind experience.

For jazz and music lovers out there, the fantastic energy, unique atmosphere and all the music opportunities of this festival definitely make the Cape Town International Jazz Festival one for your bucket list.