TransAtlantic Jazz Exchange Brings World-Class Talent to SA

Get ready for an unforgettable musical journey! The highly anticipated TransAtlantic Jazz Exchange (TAJE) Masterclass, Workshop, and Concert Series kicks off on February 7, 2025, with Experience the Music: A Night of Jazz at Joseph Stone Auditorium, Athlone, Cape Town. This event brings an electrifying fusion of South African and American jazz straight to you!

Whether you’re a musician, jazz lover, or educator, this first-of-its-kind program offers an unparalleled opportunity to experience world-class music education and mentorship—all accessible from anywhere via Zoom.

As co-founder Nasia Seria puts it: “TAJE’s initiatives foster cultural dialogue and artistic collaboration, uplifting communities one note at a time.”

The TAJE Masterclass Series brings together renowned jazz musicians from across the globe, offering an exclusive deep dive into the art and philosophy of jazz.

TransAtlantic Jazz Exchange Masterclass Highlights:

• Rene McLean (USA) – Digging Deep: The Concepts & Philosophy of Jackie McLean (Feb 15, In-Person & Online)
• Ron Scott (USA) & Simon Ndlovu (SA) – Jazz for the Struggle & the Struggle for Jazz (Feb 18, In-Person & Online)
• Pops Mohamed (SA) – Ancient Wisdom in Modern Times (Feb 20, In-Person & Online)
• Ahmed Abdullah (USA) – Insights into the Music & Philosophy of Sun Ra (Feb 20, Online)
• Chantal Willie-Petersen (SA) – The Woman Who Raised Us (Feb 25, In-Person & Online)
• Melanie Dyer & Gwen Laster (USA) – 20th & 21st Century African American String Improvisers (Feb 25, Online)
• Hilton Schilder (SA) – My Sonic Lexicon (March 4, In-Person & Online)
• Will Calhoun (USA) – Rhythm Renaissance: Exploring Global Rhythms in Jazz (March 4, Online)

These sessions blend musical traditions, cultural insights, and expert knowledge, making for a transformative learning experience. From exploring Jackie McLean’s jazz philosophy to uncovering the roots of African musical traditions, each session is a journey into the heart of jazz.

No matter where you are, you can be part of this incredible experience! The entire series is available live on Zoom, giving you direct access to jazz legends.

Secure Your Spot Today at the TransAtlantic Jazz Exchange!

Seats are limited—reserve yours now at www.transatlanticjazzexchange.org or Quicket.

Special Student & School Discounts Available!

We’re making jazz education accessible to all! Students and schools can request special rates by emailing info@taje.org.za.

Experience the Music – Live Concerts!

Join us for spectacular live performances featuring Kojo and Antoine Roney, alongside top South African musicians Mark Fransman, Chantal Willie-Peterson, and friends.

TransAtlantic Jazz Exchange Concert Dates & Venues:

• Cape Town – Joseph Stone Auditorium, Athlone | Feb 7, 2025 – 19:00
• McGregor – Villa Wahnfried | Feb 8, 2025 – 19:30
• Benoni – Music Academy of Gauteng (MAG) | Feb 13, 2025 – 18:30
• Eersterust – Tshwane School of Music | Feb 14, 2025 – 18:30
• Johannesburg – Wits Music Room, University of Witwatersrand | Feb 15, 2025 – 19:00

These performances are a celebration of unity through music, bridging cultures and communities through the shared language of jazz.

Be Part of the Movement

TAJE isn’t just an event—it’s a global jazz experience that connects people across borders. Don’t miss out on this extraordinary celebration of music, education, and collaboration.

Key Dates:

• Masterclass Series: Feb 15 – March 11, 2025
• Live Concerts: Feb 7–15, 2025
• School Workshops: Feb 6-17, 2025

For the full schedule and details, visit www.transatlanticjazzexchange.org.

Let’s bring jazz to the world—together!

 

Watch this space for updates in the Music News category on SA Music Zone.

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