The Cape Town International Jazz Festival (CTIJF), held in March, provided an unforgettable experience for many, particularly for those who travelled to the Mother City to appreciate the brilliance of jazz from both local and international artists.
However, the CTIJF offered much more than just music, reflecting the event’s dedication to creativity and expression.
Fashion and Music
Prior to the main event, the CTIJF established an atmosphere characterised by a striking blend of fashion and music at the Youngblood-Africa Gallery in the Mother City, converting the venue into a lively, culture-driven experience.
The welcome party featured an energetic array of South African designers who unveiled expressive, statement-oriented collections that merged the boundaries between runway and art installation.
Accompanied by deep house music and amidst a naturally fashionable crowd, the evening honoured individuality, inherent beauty, and creative expression.
In a recent press statement, the CTIJF announced that beyond merely showcasing fashion, the event underscored the potent connection between jazz and design, affirming the CTIJF’s position as a platform where African talent, culture, and storytelling converge in innovative and modern ways.
The Festival’s Masterclass Programme
The festival’s masterclass programme upheld the spirit of exchange and exploration through a series of carefully curated educational experiences. The week commenced on 24 March at the Artscape Arena with the Audience Engagement masterclass, facilitated by Natasha Petersen, which examined practical strategies for fostering meaningful, enduring relationships with audiences across live and digital platforms.
On 25 March, the Music Business Network masterclass, titled Navigating the Industry of Today, convened industry professionals to dissect the intricacies of the contemporary music landscape, providing valuable insights into sustainability, rights, revenue streams, and strategic thinking.
A highlight occurred on 26 March with the eagerly awaited Q&A and masterclass featuring Jacob Collier at CTICC Auditorium 1. This session provided rare insights into the creative process, collaboration, and musical curiosity, fostering an inspiring dialogue between the artist and the audience that resonated profoundly with those in attendance.
The programme concluded with two complimentary artist masterclasses at the Youngblood-Africa Gallery, reinforcing the festival’s dedication to accessibility and the development of artists.
On 27 March, Salomão Soares, Vanessa Moreno, and Yellowjackets conducted an intimate session that emphasised musicianship, improvisation, and cross-cultural collaboration.
The final masterclass, held on 28 March and led by Justin-Lee Schultz, Varijashree, and Seba Kaapstad, delved into contemporary music-making, genre-blending, and creative identity, culminating the learning programme in a powerful and inspiring manner.
