This year marks the Standard Bank Joy of Jazz’s 24th appearance as South Africa’s leading jazz event. Hosted in conjunction with TimesLIVE and Sowetan, the 2023 edition will feature the absolute best of local and international jazz artists. The impressive line-up will be announced at the festival’s official launch on Wednesday, 26 July — and attendees are invited to the exclusive live-stream event on the TimesLIVE website from 5 pm to 8 pm. Not only will live streamers be the first to find out which of the jazz who’s-who will be spearheading the festival but there will also be some fantastic surprises in store.
The in-person event will be happening on 29 and 30 September at the Sandton Convention Centre.
The Joy of Jazz is South Africa’s oldest jazz festival; it takes place annually in Johannesburg, Gauteng. The festival happens because of a partnership between Standard Bank and T-Musicman (established in 1989, one of Africa’s foremost music and concert promotion companies). This association was formed to contribute to social cohesion, economic growth, and cultural tourism in the city; and to involve participation from both local and international artists.
The main objectives of the partnership are to:
- Turn the musical event into the country’s premier jazz festival.
- Expose South African audiences to some of the world’s best performances.
- Give local artists an international platform and grow audiences.
- Extend and entrench Standard Bank’s support of the arts in South Africa.
- Add value to Standard Bank customers and to communities in which Standard Bank operates, growing positive brand association.
- Drive ticket sales and promote the line-up through T-Musicman’s campaign.
- Give support and growth to the live music industry.
Research has shown that there are over 8 million people passionate jazz enthusiasts in the region. It is the most popular genre of music amongst those between the ages of 35 – 49 years.
The Joy of Jazz organisers have been innovative and intentional throughout the years about bringing jazz awareness both to surrounding communities and international audiences. Through initiatives like “the closer you are, the more you feel” and Jazz Cares, they have increased the reach and influence of the genre to many.
To be a part of the festivities, follow the #SBJOJ2023 on social media. And visit the TimesLIVE website.