Celebrating the soul of jazz: the impact of the Cape Town International Jazz Festival

Cape Town - If you’re a fan of music, particularly jazz, the Cape Town International Jazz Festival (CTIJF) is likely a familiar name.

Since its inception in 2000, this prestigious annual event has established itself as a cornerstone of South Africa's cultural landscape.

As the festival enters its 22nd year, it has evolved into more than just a musical gathering; it embodies a vibrant communal experience that celebrates the richness and diversity of jazz, highlighting both local talents and fostering international collaborations.

Originally known as the North Sea Jazz Festival Cape Town, this celebrated event commenced as a partnership with the renowned North Sea Jazz Festival in the Netherlands. As SA continues to embrace its post-apartheid identity, the CTIJF plays an essential role in showcasing the country's dynamic and ever-evolving music scene.

Each annual celebration not only features established international acts, like jazz legends Matt Bianco, Yussef Dayes, and the enchanting musical group Kokoroko but also serves as a vital incubator for emerging African artists, allowing local voices to echo across the world stage.

Among the artists who have graced the CTIJF is singer-songwriter Zoë Modiga, who expressed her admiration for the festival.

“The CTIJF has championed the South African and international music landscape and culture beautifully over the years. Though I will always advocate for more indigenous, traditional music on our esteemed stages—these are our riches as a people far and wide—we have enjoyed a melting pot of exactly that,” she stated.

Modiga, who first gained national recognition as a contestant on “The Voice South Africa” in 2016, described the honour of performing at the festival as a significant milestone in her career.

“I have had the honour of performing at the CTIJF quite a few times in my career over the years and at each point was a milestone. It is a stage that celebrates storytelling, heart and excellence and I appreciate the prestige that is beautifully balanced by the responsive, heartwarming music lovers in the audience,” she added.

Meanwhile, musician Benjamin Jephta also shared his reflections on how the festival has shaped his journey.

“I grew up in Mitchells Plain, Cape Town, and have been attending the festival since my high school days. During my college years, I was always inspired by the festival’s thoughtful curation of artists—some of whom I knew well and others I discovered for the first time.”

“It was during those formative years that I decided to pursue a career as a performing musician. I knew that playing at the CTIJF would be a dream come true,” he recounted.

Jephta’s first performance at the CTIJF was in 2013 with a college band, after which he was invited to return in subsequent years.

“Over the years, I have seen how the festival has served as a powerful platform for local musicians, often acting as a stepping stone for their careers. In 2015 after releasing my first album I had the privilege of performing again at the festival, and most recently last year, when I showcased my latest work, ‘Born Coloured, not Born-Free’. Along the way, I have also had the opportunity to perform at the festival as a sideman for various other artists,” he said.

For Jephta, the most treasured aspect of the festival is its community spirit: “The festival crew has become like a family to me, supporting not only my growth but also the development of countless other talented young local musicians over the years.”

As the excitement builds for this year’s event taking place on April 25 and 26, the 2025 edition of CTIJF promises to elevate the experience with innovative additions.

A world-first collaboration is slated to be unveiled closer to the festival date, alongside a new culinary experience dubbed "Food Truck Valley," which will showcase a diverse array of local and international flavours.

Additionally, exclusive hospitality lounges will be made available for corporate clients and discerning guests, ensuring a luxurious festival experience.

Staying true to its commitment to accessibility, the celebrated free concert will return on the eve of the festival, allowing locals to enjoy world-class jazz without cost.

This initiative encapsulates the festival’s dedication to the community and its goal to inspire the next generation of artists through masterclasses featuring both local and international musicians.

With ticket sales launching on January 28 via Ticketmaster.co.za and the full line-up set to be revealed in February, anticipation for this year’s festival is noticeable.