SA: Free the Jazz to showcase emerging talent on Heritage Day

The Heritage Day concert will precede the 2026 Standard Bank Joy of Jazz Festival, which is scheduled for 25 and 26 September at the Sandton Convention Centre.

The line-up will bring together emerging jazz musicians, DJs and artists working across neo-soul, jazz fusion, Afro-rock and experimental music.

Among the performers is jazz maestro Sbu, winner of the Joy of Jazz #JazzReignited DJ search competition. Experimental jazz and Afro-rock group The Brother Moves On will also perform, alongside Namibian house DJ and producer DJ Castro.

The programme further includes jazz vocalist, songwriter and composer Bokang Ramatlapeng, trumpeter Robin Fassie, and DJs and radio personalities The Jazzaholics, featuring Nothemba Madumo and Nonn Botha. Jazz group Kids Love Jazz will also appear.

The concert is designed to provide a platform for emerging artists while creating an accessible entry point for younger audiences interested in jazz and contemporary African music. It is expected to attract students, young professionals, creatives, music industry practitioners and jazz enthusiasts.

Several jazz platforms will also be represented at the event, including Kids Love Jazz, Sankayi Jazz Series, Hugh’s Jazz Club, Jozi Gold, Untitled Basement, Umanyano Lwe Jazz Festival and SAMPRA.

Free the Jazz will be family-friendly, with food stalls and bar facilities available at the venue. The event will run from 10am to 7pm.

The Standard Bank Joy of Jazz Festival will follow on 25 and 26 September at the Sandton Convention Centre. Tickets are available through Ticketmaster, with general admission day passes priced at R1 150 and weekend passes at R2 250.

Standard Bank cardholders can receive up to 15% off, subject to availability and the applicable terms and conditions.