Free the Jazz: A New Generation of Jazz Takes Centre Stage This Heritage Day
Jazz lovers, music enthusiasts and culture seekers are in for a treat this Heritage Day, with Free the Jazz, a new free public concert taking place on 24 September 2026 at the Sandton City Rooftop.
Presented as part of the celebrations leading up to the Standard Bank Joy of Jazz Festival, which takes place from 25 to 26 September at the Sandton Convention Centre, Free the Jazz aims to create a welcoming and accessible space for audiences to experience the next generation of South African and African musical talent.
The concert will bring together an eclectic mix of jazz, neo-soul, jazz fusion, experimental sounds and DJ culture, alongside food and entertainment in a relaxed, family-friendly setting.
Celebrating emerging talent
The event will feature a dynamic line-up of established favourites and emerging artists.
Following the #JazzReignited DJ search competition launched by Joy of Jazz in recent months, this year’s winner, Jazz Maestro Sbu, will take to the stage at Free the Jazz.
Experimental jazz and afro-rock outfit The Brother Moves On will also perform, joined by Namibian house DJ and producer DJ Castro.
Young jazz vocalist, songwriter and composer Bokang Ramatlapeng, whose work celebrates African heritage, will feature alongside trumpeter Robin Fassie. The line-up will also include DJs and radio personalities The Jazzaholics, featuring Nothemba Madumo and Nonn Botha, as well as popular jazz group Kids Love Jazz.
Free the Jazz is designed to shine a spotlight on emerging voices while creating opportunities for younger audiences to connect with jazz in a fresh and contemporary way.
A platform for the next generation
While the Standard Bank Joy of Jazz has long brought established local and international jazz names to Johannesburg, Free the Jazz responds to the growing need to provide platforms for up-and-coming musicians.The free concert will celebrate new voices, experimental sounds, youth culture and cultural influencers, while giving emerging jazz artists an opportunity to gain exposure through curated programming.
The initiative also aims to draw students, young professionals, creatives, music industry professionals and jazz lovers into Johannesburg’s vibrant cultural ecosystem.
A number of jazz platforms and friends of the festival will also be represented on the day, including Kids Love Jazz, Sankayi Jazz Series, Hugh’s Jazz Club, Jozi Gold, Untitled Basement, Umanyano Lwe Jazz Festival and SAMPRA.
Free music, food and Heritage Day celebrations
With free entry and registration required, Free the Jazz is intended to be a concert for the people — offering audiences an accessible way to spend Heritage Day surrounded by live music, culture and community.
Food stalls and bar facilities will be available throughout the day, creating a relaxed environment for families, friends and music lovers to enjoy the performances.
Whether you’re a lifelong jazz enthusiast or simply looking for something different to do this Heritage Day, Free the Jazz offers an opportunity to discover new talent and experience the sounds shaping the future of jazz.
Event details
Date: 24 September 2026 (Heritage Day)
Venue: Sandton City Rooftop
Time: 10am–7pm
Tickets: Free, with registration required via Quicket.
Register for Free the Jazz on Quicket
Standard Bank Joy of Jazz Festival
Free the Jazz forms part of the build-up to the 2026 Standard Bank Joy of Jazz, one of Africa’s leading jazz festivals, which brings together international artists and celebrated home-grown talent.
The 2026 festival takes place from 25 to 26 September at the Sandton Convention Centre.
Tickets are available via Ticketmaster:
- R1 150 – Friday/Saturday Day Pass, General Admission
- R2 250 – Weekend Pass covering Friday and Saturday
Standard Bank cardholders can qualify for up to 15% off, limited to two tickets per person when purchasing with a valid Standard Bank debit, cheque or credit card. The offer is subject to availability and applicable terms and conditions.
With Free the Jazz opening the Heritage Day celebrations and the main festival following immediately afterwards, Johannesburg is set for a weekend celebrating jazz, culture, creativity and the artists shaping the genre’s future.