Jazz Masterclasses, as part of the Cape Town International Jazz Festival, will be hosted at Artscape Theatre on Saturday, May 4th and open to the public for FREE
Music enthusiasts and aspiring musicians are gearing up for a day of inspiration and learning as the Cape Town International Jazz Festival (CTIJF) prepares to host a series of free-to-attend masterclasses. Sponsored by the global streaming platform Spotify, with support from Artscape and Ozow, these masterclasses promise to be an enriching experience for attendees, providing unique insights into the world of jazz music from renowned industry professionals. Admission to these masterclasses is free, offering a rare opportunity for individuals to engage with experts in the field.
The line-up of masterclass instructors features a diverse array of talent, including:
The Nduduzo Makhathini (SA) – Makhathini is a highly acclaimed South African pianist and composer known for his innovative approach to jazz music. Makhathini’s masterclass, is sure to offer invaluable guidance to aspiring musicians looking to hone their skills.
Darshan Doshi Trio featuring Mark Hartsuch & Tony Grey (India/USA) – led by the talented percussionist Darshan Doshi, this trio is known for its dynamic fusion of jazz, Indian classical music, and contemporary sounds. The masterclass is expected to offer a unique perspective on musical fusion and collaboration.
Yussef Dayes (UK) – notable for his ground-breaking work as a drummer and producer, Yussef Dayes is set to share his expertise with attendees. His masterclass promises to be an engaging exploration of rhythm and improvisation.
Gretchen Parlato & Lionel Louke: The Art of the Duo (SA/Benin) – a masterclass on connection, interaction, composition for vocalist & instrumentalists from these multi-award-winning artists who will be performing Lean In – their first duo recording in 20 years – at the CTIJF. Gretchen has been Grammy-nominated in 2024 for Lean In in the Best Jazz Album of the Year category, so this is a once in a lifetime opportunity to meet and hear from these amazing artists – first hand. (see photo above)
Also hosting a special masterclass, is the series’ sponsor, Spotify, whose Phina Okuma – Head of Music Sub-Saharan Africa, will lead a session on “Spotify for Artists”, along with Warren Bokwe – Lead, Music Strategy & Operations SSA, and Jodie Tabisher – Artist and Label Partnership Manager, South Africa. Together, they will provide attendees with valuable insights into the digital landscape of music distribution and promotion.
Tabisher says: “Spotify is excited to partner with the Cape Town International Jazz Festival for this masterclass programme, celebrating jazz while helping to foster a deeper
understanding and appreciation of the genre’s rich history and vibrant future.
South African jazz vocalist and businesswoman, Bev Scott-Brown will guide the sessions on the day, underlining that it’s a fantastic opportunity for individuals to learn from some of the most talented and innovative artists in the industry.
For Marlene Le Roux, the CEO of Artscape, hosting these educational and music appreciation sessions is at the core of Artscape’s mission to instil a love of the performing arts and to emphasise sustainable theatre practice, education, and development in the space. She says: “Jazz has become an integral artform presented at Artscape, with a special focus on developing young jazz musicians through our Youth Jazz Programme. We are delighted to partner with the Cape Town International Jazz Festival as host for a series of Jazz Workshops.”
The masterclasses will take place at The Arena, Artscape on Saturday, May 4th, starting at 09:00 with the doors opening from 08H00. Attendees are encouraged to register online to secure their spot, as seating is limited. REGISTER HERE
WHAT: Jazz Masterclasses – Cape Town International Jazz Festival
WHERE: The Arena, Artscape Theatre Centre, Foreshore, Cape Town 8001
WHEN: Saturday, May 4, 2024 at 09:00 – doors open 08:00 | Festival 3 and 4 May with a free concert taking place in Greenmarket Square on 2 May from 16H00
TICKETS: Master Class REGISTER HERE | Festival – Ticketmaster.co.za.
INFO: Cape Town International Jazz Festival – Full Schedule VISIT
PHOTO: Gretchen Parlato & Lionel Louke
