The Cape Town International Jazz Festival (CTIJF) is set to bring the heat when it returns to the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC) later this month.
The artist announcement kicked off with a bang, with global superstar Black Coffee and jazz genius Nduduzo Makhathini named.
Then the smooth and sultry Ari Lennox was announced, followed by a stellar mix of world-class talents such as Victor Masondo Quartet, featuring Thembi Mtshali and Bheki Khoza, Linda Sikhakhane, Benjamin Jephta Z Kujenga, the Kyle Shepherd Trio, Thandiswa Mazwai and Nomfundo Xaluva.
Organisers recently announced that Lira, the powerhouse “Supercrew” and the dynamic Plurism would also take to the stage.
More than 30 artists will perform over this electrifying two-day spectacle.
South African queen of Afro-soul Lira makes a powerful and emotional comeback to the festival stage after overcoming a significant health setback.
The multi-award-winning songstress suffered a stroke in 2022, which temporarily affected her speech and ability to sing. But through resilience, determination and unwavering passion for her craft, she has made an incredible recovery.
Lira’s journey back to music has been one of inspiration, demonstrating the power of perseverance and the healing force of song.
Known for her rich, velvety voice and uplifting messages of love and hope, she has captivated audiences worldwide with hits such as “Feel Good”, “Something Inside So Strong”, and “Rise Again”.
Her return to the CTIJF stage will be more than just a performance; it will be a moment of triumph, a celebration of her indomitable spirit and a testament to the unwavering love and support of her fans.
Ward, Prins, Shepherd and Rubain, four legends, four virtuosos, one unforgettable collaboration.
Guitarist Cameron Ward, who toured the world as Hugh Masekela’s lead guitarist for more than a decade, brings unmatched artistry and passion to the strings.
Donveno Prins, South African saxophonist, has shared the stage with such global icons as Jonathan Butler, Marcus Miller and Kirk Whalum.
Kyle Shepherd, an internationally celebrated jazz pianist and award-winning film composer, delivers breathtaking musical storytelling. Completing this powerhouse lin-eup is Jonathan Rubain, a jazz and gospel artist-turned-TV star whose rich musical journey makes him an unstoppable force on stage.
While each has built an impressive solo career, together they form a super crew of jazz mastery, paying tribute to their musical heritage while pushing the boundaries of the genre.
Swiss drummer Dominic Egli’s renowned project, Plurism, is a boundary-pushing jazz ensemble that masterfully blends African and European influences.
Their latest project, Umhlangano, is a celebration of unity, bringing together a powerhouse line-up: Mthunzi Mvubu (alto saxophone), a prolific South African saxophonist with a deep and expressive sound, Sisonke Xonti (tenor saxophone), a fearless and emotional player whose music speaks with both power and tenderness, Feya Faku (trumpet), a legend whose warm and soulful playing anchors the ensemble, Raffaele Bossard (upright bass), whose deep, grounding grooves guide the band’s sound, and Dominic Egli himself, a masterful drummer and bandleader whose rhythmic artistry ties it all together.
With a sound that is at once earthy and celestial, Plurism will take festival-goers on a sonic journey unlike any other.
