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 newest up-and-coming jazz performer. 

The 2024 NYJB is under the musical direction of renowned South African pianist and composer Afrika Mkhize, whose music combines his South African roots with excellent technique and the world’s music influences. He was pianist and musical director for Miriam Makeba and has played with many South African musicians of her stature, as well as branching out into the production of recordings by musicians such as Themba Mkhize, Kabelo and Nokukhanya Dlamini.