International Big Band Festival

Several small local bands merge into larger ensembles of about 10 to 60 musicians, gaining big band experience beside established artists.

Young, recently graduated musicians form the core of each band and work with veteran performers. The programme brings together genres including kwaito, maskandi, gospel and hip-hop.

Headline artists’ songs are transcribed into scores, then local bands rehearse them over about two weeks before performing in public. The project promotes South African music internationally and opens career paths for young musicians from disadvantaged communities.

• Ensembles of about 10 to 60 musicians
• About two weeks of rehearsal from new scores
• Possible commercial recording, with part of the proceeds paid to participants as fees