Jazz for Young People celebrates tomorrow’s stars
Jazz for Young People celebrated the next generation of South African musicians at the National School of the Arts (NSA) in Johannesburg, where aspiring artists from schools and music academies took to the stage in a day filled with talent, passion and inspiration.
Supported by an enthusiastic audience of family members, educators, music lovers and industry stakeholders, the event created a platform where young performers could showcase their abilities alongside rising star Vuyo Viwe (born Vuyo Tshwele), an emerging Johannesburg-based flautist, composer and vocalist whose distinctive sound blends South African traditional idioms, orchestral folk and jazz, as well as acclaimed singer-songwriter Msaki. More than just a concert, the programme showcased the importance of investing in young creatives and nurturing South Africa’s rich musical heritage.
Hosted by broadcaster, voice artist and MC Sinemivuyo Mpulu, better known as Sine the Voice, the event highlighted the importance of creating opportunities for aspiring artists to gain confidence and showcase their abilities.
“I think platforms like this honestly give people a stage. It’s our way of engraving young people into the future, but as well, engraving them into the history books,” he said. Mpulu said what stood out most was witnessing young musicians perform with passion and authenticity, describing even their mistakes as part of a beautiful learning journey. “Even their mistakes are so beautiful because they allow us to actually be part of their journey,” he said.
He also challenged the perception that jazz belongs to an older generation. “Music is for everyone,” he said. “Jazz might be known for the older generation, but it still impacts us as young people.”
Ahead of her performance, award-winning singer-songwriter Msaki praised the organisers, sponsors, teachers and parents whose collective efforts make initiatives like Jazz for Young People possible. “A day like this means that young people can imagine their future,” she said.
She acknowledged the vital role played by parents and educators in supporting young creatives. “To all the parents that support your special creative artistic children, you are making space for the healers of tomorrow.” Clearly moved by the standard of performances throughout the day, Msaki said she was inspired by the talent on display. “I’m completely blown away by what I’ve seen today,” she said.
She added that South Africans have a deep connection to music, describing the audience as an essential part of the country’s creative ecosystem. “South Africa is a musical people… You guys are the fabric of why we make this music.”
Singer-songwriter Vuyo Viwe, who also took to the stage, said she hoped audiences would leave with a fresh perspective. “I hope people leave with something fresh, something new. There are different ways to do this music thing and it’s honest,” she said. Reflecting on the value of initiatives such as Jazz for Young People, she said they remind young artists that they are not alone in pursuing their dreams.
“When you’re a child, a lot of things happen in isolation. You practise by yourself, you dream by yourself and people often tell you it’s not feasible. Then you come to a place like this and realise there are people just like you. It gives you something to look forward to.”
She believes these experiences can shape an artist’s journey, allowing young musicians to look back on where it all began before eventually returning to the stage as established performers. The day was a celebration of creativity, mentorship and community, inspiring the next generation of South African musicians to dream bigger while reminding them that there is a place for their voices beyond the country’s stages.
