THE Imbokodo Jazz Festival, on Saturday, 12 August at N Shed in the Port of Durban from 1pm, boasts a line-up of talent that will cater to both jazz purists and lovers of contemporary jazz.
The jazz showcase is hosted by community based non-profit organisation, iTheku Regional Jazz Association (iTReJA), an affiliate of the South African Jazz Appreciators Association (SAJAA).
SAJAA Chairman Mncedi Zulu said Women’s Month provides the perfect timing for this festival that aims to celebrate outstanding females on the local jazz scene. Artists set to hit all the right notes include soulful singer Xolisa Dlamini, award-winning bassist/vocalist Chantal Willie-Petersen who will perform with the Feya Faku Quartet, emerging powerhouse vocalist Lindiwe Maxolo, and Durban-born jazz singer, songwriter and voice over artist Spha Mdlalose.
Also performing at the festival are emerging, young artists who will hopefully dispel the notion that jazz is reserved for mature audiences only.
The UKZN jazz band features vocalist Ayanda Thango, bassist Dalisu Ndlazi, drummer Riley Giandhari, guitarist Nick Pitman and music director and pianist Sibusiso “Mash” Mashiloane.
Also performing is a band of students, UCeeJazz Ensemble is an all-female collective of three young, talented musos from Umlazi ComTech who are creating waves locally.
Durban-born vocalist Njabulo Nzuza will return to his hometown from Cape Town to enthral audiences from the Imbokodo stage.
In addition to live jazz, the Imbokodo Jazz Festival will have food vendors selling various cuisine, a beer and whisky marquee and a chill area for networking and hanging out with fellow jazzophiles. CDs of recording artists on the line-up will be sold on site.
Tickets are R315 each and can only be booked online at www.imbokodojazzfestival.co.za. No tickets will be sold at the door. .
