THE 2024 Standard Bank Joy of Jazz celebrated Nelson Mandela Day, at a special event for the youth on July 18.
Dubbed the ‘Jazz for Young People’ Masterclasses and Jam Sessionevent, took place at the South African National School of Arts in Braamfontein.
The ‘Jazz for Young People’initiativeis aimed at raising R 500 000 for the renovations at the South African National School of Arts. 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.
The event is central to Standard Bank Joy of Jazz’s commitment to supporting education and the arts in South Africa. The National School of the Arts has been adopted as the beneficiary for any proceeds to assist with the renovation project starting in November 2024.
“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. It is intended to grow the circle of committed people helping to improve and support the South African National School of Arts. We appeal to South Africa to heed our call and make their donations and contribution so that we can reach our goal of improving the state of the school,” said Mantwa Chinoamadi, CEO at T-Musicman – Standard Bank Joy of Jazz Producers.
“As alumni of the National School of the Arts, 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 endeavoured to impart our experiences and insights to the current students,” expressed Mpumi Dhlamini, a distinguished graduate of NSA and a celebrated musician.
The masterclasses covered various disciplines of jazz and were led by distinguished artists and headliners of the 2024 SBJOJ, like Mpumi Dhlamini and Mandla Mlangeni (Diphala Stage) 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.
Conga Stage acts, Fundile “Fdeezus” Dlamini and Angelo Roman gave a masterclass on professional practice and fundamentals of rhythm. While from Mbira Stage, Langa Mavuso, Linda Sikhakhane, and Thando Mathebula, gave a masterclass on the art of improvisation.
Following the masterclasses, there was a jam session, providing an opportunity for the artists and students to come together and create beautiful music. The event was also live-streamed across the Standard Bank Joy of Jazz social media platforms.
The event aimed not only to inspire young musicians but also to raise awareness and funds for the renovation project at the South African National School of Arts. It was a celebration of jazz, education, and the spirit of Nelson Mandela Day.
Donors can visit www.backabuddy.co.za to make their 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 Ext. 221
Image (Artist Langa Mavuso, gave a master-class on the art of improvisation at the 2024 Standard Bank Joy of Jazz, dubbed ‘Jazz for Young People’ as part of the Nelson Mandela Day, on July 18, at the South African National School of Arts in Braamfontein).
