The National Youth Jazz Band brings together a selection of the best young jazz musicians in South Africa, aged 26 and younger. With only 8 positions available in the band, students undergo a gruelling online and in-person audition process to claim their place as one of South Africa’s up-and-coming jazz performers.
The 2025 NYJB is under the musical direction of leading saxophonist Sisonke Xonti, who was himself a member of the band in 2007 and 2009 and a member of the National Schools’ Jazz Band from 2004 to 2006. He is one of the busiest South African jazz musicians, with international tours and album releases along with his involvement with the Oprah Winfrey Leadership Academy for Girls. His musical journey has been influenced and inspired by early guidance from mentors such as Ezra Ngcukana and Jimmy Dludlu.
Production Credits
We are grateful to the FirstRand Foundation for their assistance in making our festival possible.
Thank you also to ProHelvetia of Switzerland who have been supporters of this festival for more than 20 years.
