The Standard Bank Joy of Jazz festival is set to shine a spotlight on South Africa’s next generation of creatives with the return of Jazz for Young People (J4YP), taking place on Saturday, 25 July 2026, at the National School of the Arts (NSA) in Braamfontein, Johannesburg.
Running from 09:00 to 18:00, the family-friendly event offers a full day of live music, workshops, art exhibitions, entrepreneurship opportunities and community engagement, all designed to place young people at the centre of creativity and cultural expression.
This year’s edition carries added significance as South Africa commemorates 50 years since the 1976 Soweto Uprising. In honour of the youth who fought for freedom and justice, J4YP continues to create meaningful opportunities for today’s young generation to develop their talents and pursue their dreams.
Award-winning singer, songwriter and composer Msaki serves as the 2026 guest curator. Through her Fetch Your Life Foundation, Msaki has become a passionate advocate for youth empowerment, skills development and mentorship. In addition to curating the programme, she will facilitate workshops focused on creativity, purpose and personal growth.
The educational programme extends beyond the festival day, with workshops taking place at JSM Academy in Soweto, the National School of the Arts in Braamfontein and the East Rand School of the Arts in Daveyton. Sessions will cover music, creativity, entrepreneurship, wellness, technology and outdoor education.
The performance line-up showcases some of South Africa’s most promising young musicians and ensembles, including the National School of the Arts Band, Khutlo Tharo School of the Arts, East Rand School of the Arts, Pro Arte Alphen Park Performing and Creative Arts High School, Spartan High School, Sacred Heart College Jazz and Marimba Band, JSM Academy, the University of the Witwatersrand Jazz Band, Central Johannesburg TVET College Music Department, Music Academy of Gauteng, Vuyo Viwe, Mahubo Band and NU-Bam & The Band.
Beyond the performances, the festival provides valuable practical experience for aspiring industry professionals. Young volunteers will have the opportunity to work alongside experienced arts and entertainment practitioners, gaining hands-on exposure to event management, production, customer service and project execution.
The event will also feature masterclasses, a youth performance stage, a creative marketplace and exhibition spaces where young entrepreneurs can showcase and sell products ranging from fashion and crafts to food, photography and visual art.
As a fundraising initiative for the National School of the Arts, Jazz for Young People continues to support one of South Africa’s most respected arts education institutions while creating a platform for emerging talent to connect with audiences and industry leaders.
Jazz for Young People remains one of the country’s most important youth-focused cultural events, combining education, performance, entrepreneurship and community development while inspiring the next generation of South African creatives.
EVENT DETAILS:
Jazz for Young People (J4YP)
Date | Saturday, 25 July 2026
Venue | National School of the Arts, Braamfontein
Time | 09:00–18:00
Tickets | Quicket
General admission tickets for adults are R100. Children aged 5–12 years pay R50. For Bulk 10% schools discounted tickets contact projects@tmusicman.co.za
Invitation to apply
Young entrepreneurs are invited to apply for exhibition space to showcase their products and crafts. Opportunities
include of selling food, apparel, crafts and art exhibitions, photography and paintings. To book your participation email: admin@tmusicman.co.za
The 2026 Standard Bank Joy of Jazz is more than a music festival. It is a cultural and economic catalyst.
Tickets are available via Ticketmaster:
● R1 150 – Friday/Saturday Day Pass, General Admission
● R2 250 – Weekend Pass | Friday and Saturday
Standard Bank cardholders qualify for up to 15% discount. The offer is limited to two tickets per person, and only on
usage of a valid Standard Bank debit, cheque or credit card and is subject to availability (Ts & Cs apply).
