The first concert, 'Free the Jazz,' which is a free public event, will take place on September 24, 2026, Heritage Day, on the roof of Sandton City. It will run from 10:00 to 19:00 and will be part of broader celebrations leading up to the Standard Bank Joy of Jazz festival, which will be held on September 25-26 at the Sandton Convention Centre.
The festival offers listeners the opportunity to discover a new generation of independent artists, as well as enjoy performances by DJs and musicians in genres such as jazz, neo-soul, jazz-fusion, and experimental music in a relaxed setting with good food.
Previously, Joy of Jazz held a DJ competition under the hashtag #JazzReignited, and this year's winner will be Jazz Maestro Sbu, who will perform at the Free the Jazz festival. Among the fan favorites are The Brother Moves On, presenting their experimental blend of jazz and Afro-rock.
The lineup also includes house DJ and producer DJ Castro. Young vocalist, songwriter, and composer Bokang Ramatlapeng, who celebrates African heritage, will perform alongside trumpeter Robin Fassie. DJs and radio hosts from The Jazzaholics, including Nothembu Madumo and Nonn Bota, complement the program with the popular jazz group Kids Love Jazz.
The event is suitable for the whole family and will feature numerous food and bar outlets in a relaxed atmosphere, allowing attendees to enjoy the culture of Heritage Day. The Joy of Jazz Festival is considered one of Africa's leading jazz festivals, bringing together global stars with the best representatives of local jazz heritage.
Despite the festival showcasing established musicians, there is a growing need to support emerging jazz talents and present the next generation of artists. This concert will provide a platform for many such performers.
The concert is free and accessible to everyone, aiming to create an easy entry point for a younger audience and recognize the achievements of budding jazz musicians. It is a celebration of new voices, experimental sounds, youth culture, and cultural leaders.
The festival invites students, young professionals, creative individuals, industry professionals, and all jazz lovers to attend this new initiative. The festival's goal is to provide continuous opportunities for developing jazz musicians and give them visibility through a carefully curated program, while simultaneously attracting a young jazz audience into Johannesburg's cultural ecosystem.
Other jazz platforms partnering with the festival will also be present on this day, including Kids Love Jazz, Sankayi Jazz Series, Hugh’s Jazz Club, Jozi Gold, Untitled Basement, Umanyano Lwe Jazz Festival, and SAMPRA.
Whether you are a long-time jazz enthusiast or simply looking for something interesting on Heritage Day, this is your chance to hear talented voices, celebrate local talent, and be part of one of Africa's most iconic jazz celebrations. Come and enjoy an unforgettable Heritage Day filled with live music at Free the Jazz. Tickets are available via Quicket; registration is required.
Date: September 24, 2026 (Heritage Day). Venue: Sandton City Rooftop. Time: 10:00 to 19:00. Tickets for Standard Bank Joy of Jazz 2026 are available via Ticketmaster: R1 150 – Friday/Saturday Day Pass, General Admission; R2 250 – Weekend Tickets | Friday and Saturday. Standard Bank cardholders are eligible for up to 15% discount. Offer limited to two tickets per person, applicable only when using a valid Standard Bank debit, check, or credit card and subject to availability (Terms and Conditions apply).