Jazz Appreciation Month 2025
In celebration of International Jazz Day, the University of KwaZulu-Natal’s Centre for Jazz and Popular Music, in collaboration with the Centre for Creative Arts and the South African Association for Jazz Education, invites you to a five-day programme of performances and conversations.
Taking inspiration from the global spirit of UNESCO’s International Jazz Day on 30 April—and echoing the theme for Jazz Appreciation Month (JAM) 2025, “Who’s Got the Map?”—the series borrows its title from Andile Yenana’s groundbreaking 2005 album.
Marking its 20th anniversary this year, Yenana’s work remains a bold, boundary-pushing contribution to South African jazz.
Programme Highlights
Vocal Showcase – Wednesday, 30 April – Centre for Jazz and Popular Music
Celebrate International Jazz Day with jazz vocalist and educator Natalie Rungan, joined by UKZN Jazz Vocalists. Experience storytelling through song as they explore emotional and lyrical landscapes.
Time: 5:30 PM
Cost: R130 (General) | R95 (Pensioners) | R65 (Students)
Venue: UKZN Howard College Campus, Denis Shepstone Building, Level 2
Bookings: [email protected] | 031 260 3385
Burton Naidoo – Solo Performance – Friday, 2 May – Bean Bag Jazz Lounge
Known for reshaping time and memory through sound, pianist Burton Naidoo returns with a visionary solo set.
Time: 7 PM
Venue:18 Lilian Ngoyi Rd, Windermere, Durban
Cost: R300 (includes a meal)
Bookings: 082 744 5040
Student Ensemble Fundraiser – Sunday, 4 May – Dukkah Restaurant
Join us as UKZN’s student ensembles perform in support of their trip to the National Arts Festival in Makhanda. A joyful, community-powered evening not to be missed.
Time: 5 PM
Venue: 59 Florida Rd, Durban
Bookings: [email protected] | 031 271 3531
Live Online Conversations
Tune into a series of digital roundtables where jazz professionals unpack the evolving role of jazz in culture, education, and promotion.
Date: Monday 28 April, Thursday 1 May & Friday 2 May
Time: 11 AM
Streaming link: facebook.com/UKZNJazzcentre
Coming Soon
Later in May, don’t miss a special performance by jazz legend Melvin Peeters at Hue Café, and a Guitar Showcase spotlighting the instrument’s unique voice in the jazz world. Dates to be confirmed.
Click here for more events.
