Keenan Ahrends is a Johannesburg-based jazz guitarist and composer, with a Master’s degree in music and extensive international touring experience. He has performed with acclaimed musicians including Jeff “Tain” Watts, Louis Moholo, Nduduzo Makhathini and SOMI, and at major festivals and venues across Africa, Europe, the US and Brazil.

Known for his evocative compositions and emotive improvisation, Ahrends has released two albums, Narrative and Perseverance: Live at the Bird’s Eye, and continues to be a prominent voice in South African jazz.

From a homemade, one-string guitar to international stages, Lucas Senyatso has built a remarkable career as one of South Africa’s respected bassists. Discovered by Hugh Masekela in 1998, he has performed with celebrated artists including Sibongile Khumalo and Judith Sephuma, and toured internationally with The Lion King. His 2024 project, Africa, celebrates his South African roots and diverse musical influences.

Join Lucas for an evening of exceptional musicianship and captivating rhythms.

Kids Love Jazz is a Johannesburg-based collective redefining jazz through a fresh blend of soul, funk, Afrobeat and contemporary African sounds. Bringing together emerging and established young musicians, the group has performed alongside artists including KOKOROKO during their 2026 AfroDiaspora Connection.

More than a band, Kids Love Jazz is a platform for experimentation, collaboration and a new generation of musicians making jazz their own.

Multi-award-winning trumpeter and composer Robin Fassie is one of South Africa’s leading voices in contemporary jazz. He has performed with celebrated artists including Thandiswa Mazwai, Dr. Nduduzo Makhathini and Black Coffee, earning international recognition along the way.

His acclaimed debut album, Intwasa: The Becoming, blends South African musical traditions with contemporary jazz, showcasing his expressive sound and creative vision.

Swazi Dlamini is an award-winning South African vocalist whose music beautifully blends jazz and gospel. She rose to prominence as a lead singer with Joyous Celebration before releasing her debut jazz album, My First Love, in 2003. The album earned her a South African Music Award for Best Female Artist in 2004, followed by recognition at the Kora All African Music Awards.

With an impressive catalogue of jazz and gospel releases, Swazi continues to captivate audiences with her soulful voice and distinctive musical style.