Standard Bank Joy of Jazz celebrates Mandela Day with Jazz for Young People initiative
Jazz for Young People initiative was aimed at raising R 500 000 for the renovations at the National School of Arts.
The 2024 Standard Bank Joy of Jazz celebrated Nelson Mandela Day at an event for youth on July 18 at the South African National School of Arts (NSA) in Braamfontein.
The Jazz for Young People Masterclasses and Jam Session aimed at raising R500 000 for the renovations at the NSA.
The event is central to Standard Bank Joy of Jazz’s commitment to supporting education and the arts in South Africa. The NSA has been adopted as the beneficiary for any proceeds to assist with the renovation project starting in November 2024.
The celebrations brought together renowned musicians, and the school’s alumni, as masterclass instructors. This offered a unique opportunity for aspiring young musicians to learn from industry leaders while contributing to a worthy cause.
“We are thrilled to have brought together such talent for this special event. The initiative is an investment in the future viability of the music industry; it gave participants the chance to learn from these renowned musicians,” said Standard Bank Joy of Jazz producer, Mantwa Chinoamadi.
A distinguished graduate of NSA and a celebrated musician, Mpumi Dhlamini, expressed his gratitude.
“As alumni of the [NSA], it brings us immense joy to have partaken in this fundraiser to help enhance our beloved alma mater. We take pride in uniting with fellow former students who have forged successful paths in music, and we endeavour to impart our experiences, and insights, to the current students.”
The masterclasses covered various disciplines of jazz and were led by distinguished artists and headliners of the 2024 Standard Bank Joy of Jazz, including Mandla Mlangeni, who gave a masterclass on composition and song design. From the Dinaledi Stage, the Acapella group, Beyond Vocal, workshopped vocal song interpretation, while Zoe Modiga taught vocal principles.
Following the masterclasses was a jam session, providing an opportunity for the artists, and learners, to come together and create music.
The event aimed not only to inspire young musicians but also to raise awareness, and funds, for the renovation project at the NSA.
Donors can visit www.backabuddy.co.za to make donations toward the renovations of the school.
Those who wish to donate their musical instruments, may do so by contacting Thabang Phiri at 011 339 6539/063 922 7900, or drop off the equipment at NSA Music Department, 17 Hoofd Street, Braamfontein.
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