The Mother City’s jazz scene is set to welcome a new wave of talent this week as the Artscape Youth Jazz Series returns for its 23rd annual showcase.
This flagship project, which launched in 2003, remains a cornerstone of youth development, offering a professional platform for aspiring musicians to refine their craft and connect with industry veterans.
The 2026 rendition takes place over two nights at the Artscape Theatre Centre, highlighting the exceptional progress of the project’s participants.
On Friday, June 12, the spotlight will be on the selected Youth Jazz soloists, followed by the School Jazz Bands on Saturday, June 13.
The school bands for this year’s showcase were selected by Keith Tabisher and Hugo Smuts from the Western Cape Department of Education.
University of Cape Town (UCT) head of jazz studies Amanda Tiffin directs the project, which has enjoyed significant growth, receiving more than 90 percent more applications this year than in 2025.
This surge in interest underscores the vital role the programme plays in fostering the next generation of musical talent.
Fifteen young musicians have been selected to be part of the 2026 programme after a rigorous audition process.
These artists include pianist Connor Johnson, drummer Ethan Herman, bassist Eyo Nzazi, guitarist Cole Krieling, saxophonists Franco Von Wieligh and Henco Bester, bassist Ryan Jacobs, vocalists Sibabalwe Gobe-Gysman, Hlelo Zungu, drummer Liam Petersen, vocalist Mackenzie Hendricks, saxophonist Michael de Goede, vocalist Talicia Mariti, trumpeter Zakhiel Davids, and pianist Kyle Damons (piano).
To mark 23 years of mentorship, Tiffin has assembled a stellar team of mentors, comprising both returning legends and fresh voices.
The mentors, who will also perform as a band, include Nomfundo Xaluva-Dyantyis, Bradley Prince, Marc De Kock, Brathew Van Schalkwyk, Damian Kamineth, and Chadleigh Gowar.
Since its inception, the series has served as a launchpad for many of the country's most successful professional musicians, award-winning recording artists, and educators.
By providing students with intensive masterclass opportunities and the experience of performing on a major stage, the Artscape Youth Jazz Series continues to bridge the gap between education and the professional industry.
For ticket enquiries, including assistance for persons with disabilities, members of the public are encouraged to contact Artscape Dial-a-seat on 021 421 7695 or visit the official website at www.artscape.co.za.
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