Jazz celebration draws in crowds in Putfontein
“It is about reviving the genre and creating awareness around it."
A community jazz and art festival was held recently at the East Rand School of arts in Putfontein.
According to Northmead resident Don Ngqoyi (community development practitioner and host for the event), the festival was co-sponsored by the Ekurhuleni metro and was initiated by the community.
ALSO READ:
Sibikwa steers youth in right direction
“It was given the name ‘The Ekurhuleni Annual Community Jazz Festival’ and was the first of its kind,” explained Don.
“This is a developmental programme and was a success.
“Montessori learners presented jazz and marimba items for the audience.
“Jazz artist Ta T – Themba Mokoena, was also present on the day and he has played alongside the likes of the late Hugh Masekela.
“We also handed out community awards for jazz, art and the ‘community jazz fan of the year’ and the Four Forty Jazz Band was present as well.
“It is about reviving the genre and creating awareness around it.
“The atmosphere and ambience on the day was electric and the event was a roaring success with over 300 people present on the day.
“There was also mobile art exhibition presented by G-force Art Gallery and the Department of Arts and Culture was also involved.”
Don, who is a jazz enthusiast, said he wants to rekindle the love of the genre within the community.
“The social scene and entertainment in general across the area seemed stagnant.
“I thought of the idea of a jazz and art festival as a means to allow individuals to come through and enjoy a day of self-expression as they took to the event.”
Don added that locals were allowed stalls on the day and sold various artifacts, thus stimulating the economy around them.
“We are grateful to the Ekurhuleni metro for their contribution to the celebration and we look forward to hosting similar events in due course.
According to Don, South Africa has been nominated to host the International Jazz Day next year.
“It means that there will, in the coming months, be a hive of activity regarding jazz.”
Follow us on these platforms:
Like our Facebook page and follow us on Twitter.
For news straight to your phone invite us:
WhatsApp: 079 431 1217
Instagram: benonicitytimes.co.za
For more #hyperlocal news at your fingertips, visit Boksburg Advertiser, Springs Advertiser, Brakpan Herald, African Reporter and Kathorus Mail
