Johannesburg’s vibrant jazz scene is set to shine this August as Jazz at Jozi Gold welcomes an impressive line-up of South African musicians to its intimate Braamfontein venue.
Taking place every Saturday evening at Jozi Gold Brewing Company on De Korte Street, the August programme features performances by Abathwebuli Trio, Louis Mhlanga and Herbie Tsoaeli, alongside an opening-night performance by Keenan Ahrends.
The series has quickly established itself as a destination for audiences looking to experience live jazz in an intimate, listening-focused setting.
“Joburg has an audience that wants to experience great jazz in an intimate, listening-focused environment,” says Nadia Jardine of Jozi Gold. “August brings together an extraordinary line-up of artists who have each shaped South African jazz in their own way.”
Abathwebuli Trio – 15 August
The month continues with Abathwebuli Trio, led by saxophonist Mthunzi Mvubu and percussionist Gontse Makhene, with bassist Sipho Mabena completing the ensemble.
The trio blends contemporary African jazz with rich rhythms, soulful melodies and traditional influences. Mvubu, whose debut album The 1st Gospel earned critical recognition, is among South Africa’s acclaimed saxophonists and flautists, while Makhene is known for connecting traditional African percussion with contemporary sounds.
Louis Mhlanga – 22 August
On 22 August, legendary guitarist Louis Mhlanga takes the stage.
With a career spanning more than four decades, Mhlanga has worked with some of Southern Africa’s most celebrated musicians, including Miriam Makeba, Hugh Masekela, Ray Phiri and Busi Mhlongo.
Known for his distinctive and lyrical guitar style, Mhlanga brings decades of musical experience to Jozi Gold for what promises to be a memorable evening of Southern African jazz.
Herbie Tsoaeli – 29 August
The August programme concludes with acclaimed bassist, composer and bandleader Herbie Tsoaeli, affectionately known as “Malume”.
Tsoaeli won the 2013 South African Music Award for Best Jazz Album for African Time and has established himself as one of the country’s most respected jazz musicians.
His performance will close out a month celebrating the depth, history and continued evolution of South African jazz.
Jazz at Jozi Gold August Line-Up
- 8 August: Keenan Ahrends
- 15 August: Abathwebuli Trio
- 22 August: Louis Mhlanga
- 29 August: Herbie Tsoaeli
Jazz at Jozi Gold takes place at 81 De Korte Street, Braamfontein, Johannesburg, with doors opening at 18:00.
Tickets are available through Quicket.
Main Image: Supplied
