SA jazz trumpeter Feya Faku to launch song book

Titled Le Ngoma Song Book, the manuscript was edited by Faku, Bokani Dyer and Bernett Nkwayi Mulungo and comprises Faku’s original compositions written between 1980s and 2000s.

The book also identifies some of the musicians who guided Feya Faku on his journey of becoming one of the most recognised jazz artists in South Africa. Such artists include Duke Makasi, George Tyefumani, Winston 'Mankunku' Ngozi, Abdullah Ibrahim, Lulu Gontsana, Bheki Mseleku and The Soul Jazzmen.

“The music in this book is a documentation of my feelings for the people I crossed paths with, young and old,” Feya Faku said. “It’s mostly about friendship, trust and commitment. As a young man, I had the honour of working with the greatest musicians South Africa has ever produced and this book is a portrayal of my gratitude to them.”

Event organiser Kelebogile Motswatswa said: “Through Le Ngoma Song Book, Faku hopes to add to the energy that has spurred the current generation of jazz musicians such as Bokani Dyer and Nduduzo Makhathini, who have graced local and international stages, flying the South African jazz flag high.

“In addition to paying homage to his teachers and counterparts, Faku’s vision is to leave behind a legacy for a younger generation of musicians – current and aspiring – who will play a pivotal role in preserving South Africa’s rich culture of jazz.

The book launch will feature a performance from the Feya Faku Quintet comprising Dominic Egli (Switzerland), Dalisu Ndlazi (South Africa), Sydney Mnisi (South Africa) and Bokani Dyer (Botswana/South Africa).

The book launch will also be held at:

• Wits Theatre, Johannesburg – 7 June.
• Howard College, Durban – 8 June.
• The Chairman, Durban – 9 June.
• Nelson Mandela University, Port Elizabeth – 11 June.

For more information about these events, contact Kelebogile Motswatswa at [email protected] or call her on 081 334 5361.