Standard Bank Jazz Festival Announces 2019 Line-ups Artistes
The Standard Bank Jazz Festival, which is in relation with South Africa’s National Arts Festival, has announced the line-up for the 2019 edition of the event. The event is scheduled to hold from June 27th to July 7th in Makhanda (formerly Grahamstown).
The list of international artistes set to the event is Nils Landgren (Sweden), Coco Zhao (China), Fredrik Noren (Sweden), and Too Many Zooz (US).
Confirmed indigenous acts include Ernie Smith, Shane Cooper’s Mabuta, Mafikizolo, Ladysmith Black Mambazo, Mandla Mlangeni, Shannon Mowday, Freshlyground, Jeff ‘Siege’ Siegel, Shaun Johannes and Marcus Wyatt’s The ZAR Jazz Orchestra.
A statement released states that: “As always, the fans can expect electrifying performances from various talented student musicians of the Standard Bank National Schools Big Band. The conduct was led this year by renowned educator and trombonist Justin Sasman”.
“We are delighted to offer a barometer of where our country’s Jazz is at right now, in all its beauty and complexity, with fascinating input from the rest of the world. We are looking forward to hosting artistes around the world for numerous acts, ranging from big bands and intimate soirees to jazz parties and youth performance. This vibrant art form will be celebrated in Makhanda. Also, it will prepare our young artistes for when it’s their turn to take over”.
Speaking on the event, Standard Bank head of sponsorship, Desiree Pooe, said the festival had played a vital role in contributing towards social change.
“This year, the Standard Bank Jazz Festival and National Arts Festival helps us with an opportunity to demonstrate how a cultural event can be included as part of a sustainable solution to a social and developmental challenge”, Pooe said.
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He concluded that the organizers will show our African heart and will urge the public to do the same in the drive to provide sustainable solutions to the water shortages in Makhanda. “It’s even more important this year to support the festival and ensure it is successful”.
