“

Bheki Khoza

“It so good to take this opportunity to thank all the Curators of the Jazz in the City. The City of Cape Town was buzzing with music and great vibes indoors and outdoors. The people and the musicians were bubbling happiness, as these performances amplified the the Cape Town Jazz festival. It was so cool also to experience another's performances as musicians. The movement of the audiences from one point to another made the real festive atmosphere. For appearing at the Gin Bar which I EVEN DID NOT KNOW, was fulfilling as I was exposed to a lot of people local and international, thereby new audiences. Keep it rolling! PEACE”

“

Geordin Hill-LewisExecutive Mayor of Cape Town

“What an amazing vibe it is tonight! Everyone outdoors in the streets enjoying JAZZ IN THE CITY.
The music is amazing, the weather is amazing, the vibe is amazing.
This is the very best of the Cape Town inner city, and I love that so many people have come from all over the city to enjoy it. It's a very special event here in Cape Town.”

“

OlwethuKujenga

“Jazz In The City was a culture reset. There was something so powerful about traditional African sounds and music dictating the flow of the night in Cape Town. It resembled the energy of First Thursdays Cape Town, only music being the motive. And during a time where thousands come into the city to see the biggest stars across the globe, it was a perfect time to show people who keeps the music scene alive in this city and country. Platforming local musicians was crucial to the success of the festival.

The festival had made it a fact that South African jazz music should be celebrated beyond one venue, but rather on, within, and around the streets of Cape Town, as it has an impact on the culture in the city.”

“

ISandi Sarona / Herbie Tsoaeli

“Jazz in the City isn’t just a concert, it’s a whole mood, where the music, the streets, and the people all become part of the experience.

Many thanks to the team and partners for inviting me and my band to be part of the inception of Jazz in the City. I truly appreciate the opportunity to have contributed to the birth of this exciting initiative.

This concept holds great potential, and with strategic structuring and nurturing, it can grow into a sustainable platform within the city’s cultural landscape.

Importantly, it creates opportunities for both established and emerging artists to showcase their craft — especially in those moments when they may not be featured on bigger stages during the already vibrant jazz season. These intimate spaces allow for genuine connection between artists and audiences, bringing the music closer to the people.

I’m grateful to have been part of the beginning of what can become a meaningful and lasting contribution to the jazz community. Your truly in Music”

“

Steve Dyer

“In a time where many South Africans feel that live music is becoming cost prohibitive and exclusionary, along comes Jazz in the City. The energy of the inaugural Jazz in the city exuded togetherness and accessibility. Smaller venues, more affordable admission fees and free street concerts meant the music was being taken to the people. I’m grateful to have performed in the Dyer-logue duo with Bokani Dyer on the opening night. Beautiful energy abounded in the Cape Town city streets and clubs. Long live Jazz in the City, long live!!”

“

DJ BobDJ Bob Jazz Club

“We at DJ Bob Jazz Club really enjoyed being part of Jazz in the City. The music curation was top notch and the venue selection and layout along Bree was well thought out.

The choice of Vault on Bree was well suited although I did feel that DJ Bob Jazz Club might have been better placed in a bar/ club surrounding.

On the whole, the festival was inclusive, accessible, considered and affordable. It was a joy to see so many young people enjoying the Jazz. The ticketing and access was at times confusing, but these are teething problems that I'm sure will be streamlined in future. Well done for a great effort.”

“

NtsumiMfazwe Yamwezi

“Performing at JAZZ IN THE CITY felt like a familiar dream happening in front of me. It was an honour. The highlight for me was when I caught snippets of sound from Herbie Tsoaeli, Umthiomkhulu, and others playing inbetween our songs - it felt like my icons were giving us a nod. Growing up listening to these masters it was an honour to pray and share grace at the same time and place as them.”