Cape Town International Jazz Festival to explore the legacy of sound in music

The Cape Town International Jazz Festival (CTIJF) continues to weave a rich tapestry of dialogue and cultural reflection with its monthly conversation series, dedicated to sparking meaningful discussions in the music and entertainment industry.

Following a successful inaugural session in August, which highlighted the imperative of “Future-Proofing the Industry for Women: Creating Sustainable Change” during Women’s Month, the series gears up for its second event themed “Connecting the Past, Present, and Future: Legacy Through Sound.”

Slated to take place next week, this instalment promises to delve deep into the theme of sound as an intangible heritage. It reflects the belief that sound is not merely an auditory experience but a living, breathing force that encapsulates memory, identity, and culture, fostering connections across generations.

Through this conversation, attendees will explore how diverse identities are celebrated through sound, providing a platform for marginalised communities to voice their traditions and share their stories.

The series aims to underscore music's role as a bridge, facilitating dialogue and encouraging social cohesion, while fostering a collective and inclusive sense of national identity.

Additionally, it highlights the vital nature of oral history and storytelling, essential for the transmission of cultural wisdom and knowledge between generations.

By positioning heritage as an ever-evolving entity rather than a static concept, the discussion promises to highlight how every act of artistic expression reinterprets and reconstructs cultural narratives.

"South African heritage and music are deeply intertwined. The sound of our heritage is a soul-stirring living force, which is the very foundation upon which today’s artists build, innovate, and tell new stories.

"At the CTIJF, we believe that this legacy is not only cherished but also reinterpreted and carried forward by a vibrant new sound. This vision is at the core of our work and at the heart of our sonic mission," said Georgia Jones, CTIJF’s Artist and Relationship Manager.

This monthly conversation series forms part of CTIJF’s broader transformation journey as the festival prepares for its 23rd edition, scheduled for March 27 and 28, 2026.

Expect an invigorated festival experience with revamped programming alongside enhanced engagement opportunities aimed at enriching the artistic landscape.

Tickets for CTIJF 2026 are already on sale through Ticketmaster and will retain the prices from 2025 until 25 November 2025.

Music lovers and cultural enthusiasts are encouraged to follow the festival’s journey and updates on social media by using the hashtag @capetownjazzfestival.

IOL