The commonly held belief that jazz is music for the elite is a flawed one. Jazz collectors clubs, jazz associations and jazz appreciation societies have become an integral feature of South Africa’s jazz culture and heritage.

They are found across the length and breadth of the country’s diverse landscape – from Manenberg to Mamelodi and from Port Elizabeth to Polokwane.

The members of these stokvel-like gatherings are Jazzophiles whose passion for their genre is expressed through weekly sessions where a variety of styles including smooth jazz, township swing and hard bop are played and jazz CDs are shared.

These social gatherings also serve as forums where jazz-related issues are discussed and debated.

An important milestone in the evolution of these organisations was the formation of a national body called the South African Jazz Appreciators Associations (SAJAA) on 10 August 2013 in Durban. As a promoter of live music, T-Musicman maintains that jazz clubs are an important platform to promote jazz appreciation through live shows.

“We have fostered an ongoing professional relationship with these associations, through a campaign called The Road to the Joy of Jazz” – a series of concerts that showcase upcoming genuine talent – members of jazz clubs can enjoy live music and music presentation by Jazz Presenters from different Jazz clubs.

The Road to Joy of Jazz has become an important element of the festival’s brand and a key contributor to job creation as these young musicians benefit financially for their performances at these super sessions.”

Emerging musicians like Lindiwe Maxolo, Mbuso Khoza and Zacia have featured in these sessions. Today they have graduated to the festival’s big stages and generally making waves on the country’s live circuit.

Since its inception in 2011 the Road to Joy of Jazz is gaining popularity among young musicians who need exposure. We use local talent and suppliers to exploit the empowerment of SMMEs.

“Our dream is to see these young musicians eventually gracing main festival stages in the country and globally.
This year we have included Mpumalanga Province as part of our audience development and community upliftment drive,” says Sipho Dlamini of the Road to Joy of Jazz.