Durban is known for several things.
It's artists including the likes of Babes Wodumo and DJ Tira, it's strong gqom culture and the evident links to house music.
But deep in Durban, there is a jazz festival that has been around for 21 years and counting.
The Durban Jazz Festival is set to take place on 26 and 27 December at the Hazelmere Dam and the Durban International Convention Centre. Festival organiser Mduduzi Ngcobo has high hopes for this year's festival and the plans to uplift the jazz scene in Durban.
“The Durban Jazz festival is an event that celebrates music in Durban. A concept that I began back in 2002, where I saw a lack of music entertainment in Durban during the festive season. I knew I wanted it as an outdoor event especially with the captivating backdrop of our dams or beaches in Durban. An event that would eventually grow bigger and hopefully over two days or more.
“I wanted to create a festival that brought South Africa and neighbouring countries under one roof to enjoy the sound of music and the genre I chose at that time was jazz. That is when Durban Jazz Festival concept emerged from a desire to showcase jazz talent, promote cultural diversity, and provide a platform for musicians within the region,” the 61-year-old says.
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Mduduzi has been in the events and entertainment industry since he was in his mid 20s, when he owned a nightclub in Inanda called Staccato, which had all the music maestros from across the country coming to perform live weekly.
“My love for entertainment and events grew from there which saw the birth of another popular nightclub in the center of Durban CBD called Whispers. Which the birth the love for bashes/festivals around KZN and down the coastline. It’s safe to say I have been in this industry for a good 40 years plus.”
So, this man is more than aware of there being many jazz festivals in South Africa and so making this one stand out is of importance to the resident of Inanda.
“The distinctiveness of the Durban Jazz Festival might stem from its unique line up, showcasing local and international talent, its celebration of regional jazz influences, or its efforts to foster cultural exchange within the context of jazz music. Each festival aims to carve out its own identity and unique selling points within the broader landscape of jazz festivals.
“Jazz festivals often build on a city or region’s musical heritage, and there might have been earlier events or initiatives that laid the groundwork for this festival. Typically, such festivals evolve over time, drawing on the rich musical history and talent pool within the area.”
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The full line up for Durban Jazz Festival is typically announced closer to the date of the festival, “because what we are selling is the lifestyle and the brand Durban Jazz Festival.”
The Durban Jazz festival often curates its line up based on a mixture of factors such as popularity, musical diversity, relevance to the festival’s theme, and the ability to draw in diverse audiences. Mduduzi says artists might be chosen for their prominence in the jazz genre, “their ability to provide a captivating live performance, or their contribution to the cultural significance of jazz music.”
They have a staggering line up planned with the likes of Brenda Mtambo, Sipho Hotstix Mabuse, Langa Mavuso, Zawadi Yamungu, Ola Sax from Nigeria, Naima Kay with 11 more musicians to fill up the lineup all performing on the 26th at the Hazelmere dam.
The festival will then move to the Durban International Convention Centre on the 27th with acts like Zoe Modiga, Mandisi Dyantyis, Nduduzo Makhathini and more still to be announced.
The future of jazz in Durban
Growing the jazz scene in a city less known for it involves several strategies that the festival is looking to spearhead or aid. The idea is to engage with local communities through workshops, educational programs, and outreach initiatives to cultivate interest in jazz music. Collaborations with schools, community centers, and local musicians to create awareness and appreciation are also on the cards.
They will also look to, “highlight and support local jazz musicians by providing platforms for performances, collaborations, and exposure within the city. Encourage a thriving local jazz scene to attract more interest. Which Durban jazz festival has managed to do with having DJF auditions, with this year we have worked UKZN jazz.”
Incorporating the essence of collaboration is also a point of emphasis.
“Partnering with cultural institutions, music venues, and other festivals to incorporate jazz performances or themed events. Collaborations can expand the reach of jazz music to new audiences,” Mduduzi explains.
Educating audiences through music programs focusing on jazz in schools and community centers is also something they are aiming at establishing.
“Encouraging young talents who can contribute to a sustainable jazz culture in the city. We would like to organise regular jazz events, small concerts, and possibly larger jazz festivals that showcase a diverse range of jazz styles. This not only entertains but also exposes the audience to different facets of jazz music.”
The final step that needs to be taken to reinvigorate jazz in Durban is to create a jazz network of likeminded people and talents that can contribute to the growing the scene.
“This will include musicians, educators, and industry professionals within the city. Networking can foster collaborations, exchange ideas, and collectively contribute to the growth of the jazz scene.”
The Durban Jazz Festival will be taking place again next year as the brand continues to grow.
“It's a good idea to keep an eye on the festival's official website, social media channels, or local news outlets for any announcements regarding future editions or plans for the Durban Jazz Festival.
There are also plans to revive a once popular gathering called Jazz in July as an international event in Durban in a month when the city is at its busiest because of the Durban July.
“This is sure to bring a vibrant and culturally rich experience to both locals and visitors. Jazz festivals have a unique way of bringing people together, celebrating music, and fostering a sense of community. Jazz in July is a wonderful concept that celebrates the soulful, diverse, and expressive nature of jazz music during the month of July. It's a period dedicated to honoring the rich history and contemporary innovation within the jazz genre.”
Jazz in July will feature a series of concerts, jam sessions, and performances by renowned jazz artists from around the world.
“It's a time to showcase different styles of jazz, from traditional to fusion and experimental forms. We will offer workshops, masterclasses, and educational sessions for aspiring musicians, students, and enthusiasts. These sessions could cover various aspects of jazz, including improvisation, history, theory, and instrument techniques.”
