So, where do all the jazz cats go in June? To Makhanda for the annual National Youth Jazz festival of course!
Running from 27 June to 2 July and celebrating its 30th anniversary this year, the NYJF has established itself as one of the premier music events on the South African calendar. If you’re looking for top-shelf local and international acts, school and university band performance and great vibes – the NYJF has got you covered!
The festival also distinguishes itself from others by its strong focus on music education, giving 250 students representing 25 educational institutions across South Africa the opportunity to immerse themselves in the jazz scene. Needless to say, Bothners was there to power the music of these future musos!
High school and university students had the opportunity to attend world-class performances, rehearse and perform in their own bands, participate in jam sessions and attend jazz workshops by highly experienced teachers and performers.
One of the festival highlights is the selection of the National Schools Jazz Band and the National Youth Jazz Bands. Our congratulations to the following students on being selected to join these prestigious bands.
Schools Jazz Band
Back: Russell Matthews, Heyn van de Geyn (conductor), Nicolas Lipinski, Litha Mpondo, Adam Powell
Front: James Ford, Jayden Harebottle, Tallis Hurly, Amila Tembani
Youth Jazz Band
Back: Kabelo Boy Mokhatia, Siyalo Zulu, Ofentse Moses Sebola, Jean Strauss
Front: Uviwe Caso, Mandla Mlangeni (conductor), Brathew van Schalkwyk, Zenzele Mthembu-Salter
Finally, we’d like to congratulate the organisers, Alan Webster and his team, for delivering an absolute knock-out of a festival. We know it’s a jazz festival, but you guys rock!
A special thank you also goes out to the teachers – your hard work and passion for music and teaching was on full display at the festival.
From the Bothners clan, keep that jazz flame burning bright!
We’ll catch you again next year!
