Standard Bank Joy of Jazz expands celebration from two to three days

The 26th edition of the Standard Bank Joy of Jazz festival is expanding from its original two-day festivities to a three-day celebration.

Joy of Jazz held its line-up announcement event on April 29, at Artistry Theatre in Sandown, Sandton.

The Joy of Jazz will take place from September 26 to 28, at the Sandton Convention Centre, Joburg.

This year's attendees can look forward to an extraordinary line-up featuring more than 60 artists from across the globe, performing on four international stages.

This gathering not only showcases the finest talent in jazz but also embodies a rich cultural tapestry that resonates with the spirit of Joburg, making it a must-experience event for all.

Speaking to TshisaLIVE, singer-songwriter Berita said she's looking forward to performing for the first time on the Standard Bank Joy of Jazz stage.

“My music journey has been amazing as I've been in the music industry for over decade now, but for me it feels like I've just started. Joy of Jazz will be my first opportunity to perform on the big stage. My fans should expect fireworks, as I'll be performing my new songs,” she said.

Congolese musician Tresor said: “Joy of Jazz is an incredible festival with an incredible line-up and I think it'll be the best weekend of the festival; I'm really excited to be part of it .”

Afro-pop singer Phinda Mtya-Matlala says it's not her first time at the Joy of Jazz, but it's a first to perform on her own.

“I was often at the Joy of Jazz accompanying someone, but now it's the first time to perform as Phinda Matlala. I've always aspired to be part of the celebration as myself; I feel honoured to be of this uplifting experience.”

Festival producer Mantwa Chinoamadi said: “We are thrilled to mark another significant year by expanding to a three-day celebration, providing jazz enthusiasts with more chances to engage with the music and culture they adore. As we continue to evolve and enhance our impact on the arts, we anticipate delivering an extraordinary experience that embodies our dedication to creativity, inclusivity and diversity.”

The following artists are scheduled to perform on these respective stages:

Diphala stage: 

• The Baylor Project (US)
• Siya Charles (SA)
• Phinda Matlala (SA)
• Kyle Shepherd (SA)
• Hakan Basar Trio (Turkey)
• Peter Auret Trio (SA)
• Najponk Trio (Czech Republic)
• Jazzmeia Horn (US)
• Simon Denizart (Canada)
• Ncesh Nonxishi (SA)

Conga stage:

• Oumou Ndegeocello (Mali)
• Ababhemu Quartet (Sweden, Norway and SA)
• Fisherman Orchestra (SA)
• Xolisa Dlamini (SA)
• Steve Bedi (US)
• Guitar Convergence (SA)
• Gabi Motuba (SA) 
• Alune Wade (Senegal)
• L'wei Netshivhale (SA)

Dinaledi stage:

• Esperanza Spalding (US) 
• Thandi Ntuli (SA)
• Andile Yenana (SA)
• Siya Khuzeni (SA) 
• Tshepo Mngoma (SA)
• Nomfundo Xaluva (SA)
• Mandla Mlangeni (SA)
• Steve Dyer (SA)
• Cameron Ward (SA)

Mbira stage:

• José James (US)
• Amanda Black (SA)
• Velemseni (Eswatini)
• Elaine (SA) 
• Beyond Vocals (SA)
• KB Motsilanyane (SA)
• Sylent Nqo (Zimbabwe)
• Tresor (DRC)
• Leomile (Lesotho) 
• Berita (Zimbabwe)
• Mondli Ngcobo (SA)
• The Muses (UK)
• Muneyi (SA)