WeeklySA_AdminLINE-UP: National School of Arts gives platform to young jazz musicians
By Priscilla Malinga
I always dread when I get invited to attend a concert for artists I have never heard of – but one needs to be open-minded.
But Standard Bank Joy of Jazz for young people had a point to rub in – proving that music is there to be enjoyed.
Does it matter who is performing it? Certainly, no. The end result, though, stunned. Music lovers were mesmerised: students attached to the National School of Arts (NSA) based in Braamfontein were brilliant in their rendition.
The outdoor fest attracted families and youngsters from all walks of life. It was all soothing. It was intoxicating. An unforgettable experience of listening to unforgettable sounds performed by talented young creators of music.
Without any doubt, this caused every minute to be worth the trouble of having made a beeline to the event. The National School of Arts put it all brilliantly together, giving a platform to young jazz musicians, the jazzophiles of the day to celebrate.
Jazz touches young souls. This reality was in evidence. The enthusiasts were mainly young, patronise the event whose other mission was to achieve a noble project of supporting a good cause, which was to raise funds for the school.
The genre was unmistakenly South African. It was spiced differently by young performers of different palates, celebrating and displaying their capabilities.
With original melodies they created for themselves songs form which reflected South Africa’s best talents, and this included the likes of Thandiswa Mazwai, among others.
Alumni of the National School of Arts Zoe Modiga – singer and songwriter – conducted roadshows, vising some of the schools featured in the event.
During her visits, Modiga mentored the students, helping them to prepare and perfect their performances prior to the big day.
The initiative was designed to inspire, guide, and empower young performers, ensuring they do well on stage.
This event by the young people for young people, combined world-class entertainment with opportunities for young entrepreneurs and practitioners to access new markets. The line-up featured renowned Biko’s Manna made up of three siblings – Biko, Manna, and Mfundo Nhlangothi.
Also featured in the event was Iphupho L’ka Biko, an Africanist band, based in Johannesburg.
Other participating schools included the National School of Arts Khutlo Tharo Jazz Band; Sibikwa Marimba Band; East Rand School of The Arts; Morris Isaacson School of The Arts; Parktown Girls Marimba Band; Springs Boys High School; Tshwane School of Music; and Willow Crescent Magnet School of Music Band.
At the end of it all, and apart from great music and fun, there were thrills all over the place of festivities, with everyone present treated to great music. Food stalls offered a variety of foodies for all tastes.
Mantwa Chinoamadi, festival producer and CEO of T-Musicman, said the goal of the event was to celebrate the rich heritage of jazz, while nurturing the next generation of artists to carry the legacy into the future.
“Jazz for Young People is a wonderful opportunity to bring families and communities together through the universal language of music,” said Chinoamadi.
TheRealDJ Zandy, as the DJ for the day, dished out sweet and great music.
