The Standard Bank Joy of Jazz Kicked Off with an Unforgettable First Night, and the Second Night Promises To Be Even Better

The prestigious Standard Bank Joy of Jazz Festival opened its doors last night, igniting the city with the smooth sounds of the world’s best jazz talent. As one of Africa’s premier jazz festivals, this year’s edition marks 25 years and another incredible celebration of music, culture and collaboration that left attendees captivated.

Held at the Sandton Convention Centre, the festival's first evening set the bar high with performances that spanned generations and jazz styles. Opening the night was the iconic Joe Nina on Mbira Stage, whose magnetic performance immediately set a soulful tone for the festivities. Audiences were then treated to an array of breathtaking performances from local and international artists, showcasing the global nature of music and jazz, and the festival’s reputation as a platform for musical excellence.

Among the night’s most anticipated performances was a stellar collaboration between Keiko and Nokukhanya, whose dynamic fusion of rhythms and modern jazz took the audience on a sonic journey like no other. Their unique blend was one of the acts that highlighted the festival's commitment to bridging cultures through the universal language of music.

Festival-goers were also thrilled by a powerful tribute to jazz legends of the past, reminding everyone of the enduring influence of jazz through the ages. The homage, performed by a talented ensemble of musicians, brought a sense of history and nostalgia to the stage while pushing the boundaries of contemporary jazz.

Standard Bank’s long-standing partnership with Joy of Jazz has continued to elevate South African artists, providing them with an opportunity to share the stage with international luminaries. The festival remains a key cultural event that enriches the local arts scene, supporting musicians and drawing visitors from across the globe.

This year’s theme, “Jazz Gets Deeper. Take Me There." is being realised in every performance, as the festival celebrates both jazz icons and emerging talents who are shaping the future of the genre. From soulful ballads to fiery improvisations, the first night has set an extraordinary precedent for the rest of the weekend, promising more thrilling performances to come.

The Standard Bank Joy of Jazz runs until 28 September, with an exciting lineup of over world-class acts such as Victor Masondo, MandisiDyantyis,  Lizz Wright,  Chris Botti and so much more. Tickets are still available at Ticketmaster, so don't miss out on this unforgettable celebration of jazz music and culture.