Inaugural 'Free the Jazz' concert sets the tone for the Joy of Jazz Festival
Free the Jazz, a free Heritage Day concert featuring emerging jazz and fusion artists, takes place at Sandton City Rooftop on September 24, 2026, ahead of the Standard Bank Joy of Jazz festival.
On September 24, 2026, the inaugural Free the Jazz concert will kick off celebrations for the Joy of Jazz Festival, starting at Heritage Day at Sandton City Rooftop. The event, spanning from 10 am to 7 pm, will feature a diverse lineup of jazz musicians, DJs, and neo-soul artists. Free to attend, the concert aims to introduce younger audiences to the world of jazz and showcase emerging talents alongside established performers.
Among the headliners are The Brother Moves On, known for their experimental jazz and Afro-rock fusion, and Kid Love Jazz, a prominent local acts. DJ Castro, a house DJ and producer, will spin tracks alongside other DJs like Sbu, who won the #JazzReignited DJ competition. The event is family-friendly, offering food stalls, bar facilities, and a relaxed atmosphere to enjoy the cultural significance of Heritage Day.
The Joy of Jazz Festival runs from September 25 to 26 at the Sandton Convention Centre, offering a platform for both established musicians and up-and-coming artists. This year's winners of the DJ search competition, Jazz Maestro Sbu, will grace the stage at the Free the Jazz concert. The festival seeks to cultivate a vibrant jazz scene in Johannesburg, providing opportunities for emerging artists and engaging a young jazz audience.
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