The Standard Bank Joy of Jazz Festival is presenting the Jazz for Young People (J4YP) initiative—a celebratory day dedicated to the youth of South Africa. This event will take place on Saturday, July 25, 2026, from 9 am to 6 pm, at the National School of Arts in Braamfontein, Johannesburg.
Goals and Format of the Event
The J4YP program is designed to engage both young audiences and performers in a dynamic blend of jazz, education, and community activity. The event offers family entertainment, including live performances, a food fair, art exhibitions, and children's activities.
Furthermore, J4YP functions as a fundraiser to support the National School of Arts, which has made significant contributions to the development of musicians in South Africa. By giving young people the opportunity to participate in the festival's presentation alongside their peers, the event promotes meaningful involvement while simultaneously raising funds to support the school.
Significance of the Event This Year
This year holds special significance as South Africa marks the 50th anniversary of the Soweto Uprising, when youth took to the streets demanding their rights. In the spirit of this legacy, J4YP creates opportunities for today's youth and supports their dreams.
Role of the Curator and Educational Program
J4YP gains particular importance this year through the brilliant guest curator, Asanda Lusaseni, also known as Msaki, an award-winning composer, singer, and songwriter. Through her foundation, Fetch Your Life, Msaki has created a platform that motivates youth to follow their purpose. The foundation focuses on providing assistance, skill development, mentorship, and workshops for youth in underserved communities, connecting them with opportunities and spaces for growth.
The initiative, named after the hit 'Fetch Your Life,' reflects its message about aligning life with one's own dreams and purpose. In addition to curating the J4YP lineup, Msaki will conduct masterclasses. Workshops will also feature sessions on music and creativity, wellness, outdoor education, and entrepreneurial technology.
Masterclass Schedule
Workshops will take place in several locations: at JSM Academy: Nkanyezi Simulation Centre, Martha Louw Street, Orlando Gardens Soweto, on July 13 from 10:00 am to 1:00 pm; at the National School of Arts (NSA) located at 17 Hoofd Street, Braamfontein, Johannesburg, on July 21 from 10:00 am to 1:00 pm; and at the East Rand School of the Arts (ERSA) at 1 Jones Street, Daveyton Benoni, on July 22 from 10:00 am to 1:00 pm.
Participants and Their Experience
The festival lineup includes groups selected from various music institutions, giving young performers a chance to share their talent before a live audience. These artists represent music-focused high schools, universities, youth collectives, and musical organizations. Most are technically proficient, possess deep cultural roots, and are capable of adapting to live performances, studio work, and educational activities. The majority of participants are aged between 16 and 25 and are seeking platforms for further development of their musical ideas.
Festival Musical Groups
The program features ensembles such as NSA Band, Khutlo Tharo School of the Arts, East Rand School of the Arts (ERSA), Pro Arte Alphen Park Performing and Creative Arts High School, Spartan High School, Sacred Heart College Jazz/Marimba Band, JSM Academy, the University of the Witwatersrand Faculty of Music Jazz Group, the Johannesburg Central College of Further Education Faculty of Music, Music Academy of Gauteng, as well as soloist and band leader Vuyo Viwe, who holds a prominent place in the contemporary South African jazz scene, along with Mahubo Band and NU-Bam & The Band.
Educational Aspects of J4YP
J4YP goes beyond simply celebrating art; it promotes youth ideas by giving them a platform to showcase their talents, stimulate creativity, and ignite an entrepreneurial spirit. Annually, the event strengthens community and creativity, being thoughtfully curated by the youth, for the youth.
The event also features a multi-level educational program: masterclasses aimed at developing skills in entrepreneurship, music, dance, and art; a stage for the youth festival performances featuring live music and dance; and a marketplace for young entrepreneurs wishing to sell their products, alongside an exhibition space.
Throughout the day, professionals from the arts and entertainment industry will consult with teams formed by young people, assisting with planning, production, and execution of the event. Teams will be assigned various roles, allowing aspiring specialists to network with industry experts, gain valuable experience, and develop skills in event management, customer service, and teamwork. Youth are encouraged to apply for volunteering positions at J4YP. To ensure maximum inclusivity, the festival collaborates with organizations such as MusicLab to provide volunteers.
Event Details
Jazz for Young People (J4YP) will take place on Saturday, July 25, 2026, at the National School of Arts in Braamfontein, from 9 am to 6 pm. Tickets are available via Quicket. The general adult ticket price is 100 rand, and for children aged 5–12, it is 50 rand. A 10% discount is available for schools ordering bulk tickets; contact should be made at projects@tmusicman.co.za.
Invitation for Entrepreneurs
Young entrepreneurs can apply to rent an exhibition space to display their products and handmade items. Opportunities include selling food, clothing, crafts, as well as photographs and paintings. To book participation, please email admin@tmusicman.co.za.
The Standard Bank Joy of Jazz 2026 Festival is not just a musical event but a cultural and economic stimulus. Tickets are also available through Ticketmaster: the day pass for Friday/Saturday is 1,150 rand, and the full weekend pass (Friday and Saturday) is 2,250 rand.