True Jazz, True Karoo
Paolo Damiani Trio, Hilton Schilder, Carlo Mombelli and the Prisoners of Strange Edition 2, Siya Makuzeni and Kujenga part of line-up to thrill jazz enthusiasts and travel adventurers at 3rd Journey to Jazz festival in Prince Albert in May 2025
Prince Albert, 17 December 2024 – The Journey to Jazz Festival returns for its third edition intent on sparking curiosity about origins, culture and society, when it takes place in the town of Prince Albert from 1 – 4 May 2025. This week, and just in time for festive season present musts, some of the incredible artists who will immerse visitors in a world of sonic explorations, and storytelling, were revealed.
More good news, festival organisers also released a number of Early Bird tickets – via Quicket – which will be on sale from 18th December 2024 for a limited time before reverting to 2025 prices.
Prince Albert, in the heart of the Great Karoo, is making a name for itself as a cultural destination par excellence, as is the Journey to Jazz (J2J) festival itself. J2J is an open invitation to take a journey of discovery using the parlance of jazz music, a genre with universal appeal and respect for indigenous cultures, set against the backdrop of a UNESCO World Heritage Site, a surrounding dynamic ecological environment, multiple venues, and the embrace of a diverse community.
In 2025, J2J will transport visitors through time with a considered line up of South African and international musicians curated by creative director Brenda Sisane and artistic director, Kyle Shepherd. The first artists to be announced include:
· Hilton Schilder: The Cape Jazz pioneer whose mastery of 16+ instruments is as legendary as his storytelling.
· Ernie Smith: Multi-award-winning artist known for his soulful fusion of jazz, African rhythms, and R&B.
· Carlo Mombelli & The Prisoners of Strange – Edition 2: Avant-garde bass-driven compositions exploring the fine line between sanity and brilliance.
· Siya Makuzeni: A trailblazing trombonist and vocalist whose genre-bending performances redefine musical boundaries.
· Paolo Damiani Last Land Band: The Italian trio of Damiani (bassist), Antonio Jasevoli (guitarist) and Elena Paparusso (vocalist), take audiences on a sonic journey exploring humanity and Earth’s infinite possibilities.
· Kujenga: A Cape Town-based collective that celebrates Black culture through spontaneous and vibrant improvisation.
· Outeniqua High School Jazz Band: Young South African talent blending traditional jazz with local influences.
A Karoo reception
True Karoo hospitality is reflected in the fun-filled and varied ‘Groet is n Moet’ (greeting is a must) activity programme the J2J festival puts on each year, and the warmth of the townsfolk who open their doors to visitors from near and far. From artist-led Masterclasses, a night at the museum dinner, and ghost tours, to bike rides, guided walks in the surrounding Swartberg mountains, a neighbourhood goods market and this year, a series of world-class exhibitions, Journey to Jazz and Prince Albert has it all.
Tickets for the various experiences are sold separately, and more details will be on the J2J website.
A festival with purpose
There are many unique aspects to Journey to Jazz, one being the relaxed atmosphere in which the performances take place and the freedom for everyone to walk about the town, mingle and explore. However, at the heart of the festival, is perhaps its most important attribute – sustainable development.
Established by the Prince Albert Community Trust (PACT) in 2023, the festival empowers the local community through skills training, employment, and cultural exchange. Over 70 local youth, primarily from Noord Einde, are involved in co-producing the event, ensuring its positive social and economic impact.
Event details:
Name: Journey to Jazz
Date: 1 – 4 May 2025
Where: Venues throughout Prince Albert
Ticket prices: Limited Early Bird tickets are available at R250 per person per performance.
For more information: www.journeytojazz.co.za
