Visitors experienced the spiritual connection of jazz, community, and culture at the Journey to Jazz Festival 2025 in Prince Albert.
Image: Supplied
The third edition of the Journey to Jazz Festival opened this morning with a powerful and haunting performance by Siya Makuzeni, whose sunrise salute echoed through the ancient bowl of the Krittikom Koppie amphitheatre in Noordeinde, Prince Albert.
As the first rays of sunlight spilled across the Karoo landscape, Makuzeni’s voice and trombone rose in evocative harmony with the rocks and rhythms around her - a mesmerising invocation of ancestral memory, natural energy, and musical brilliance.
Despite the early chill, festivalgoers wrapped in blankets and warm smiles gathered to welcome both the dawn and the official opening of this soulful celebration of jazz, place, and people.
“There is something deeply spiritual about beginning the festival here, among ancient rocks, with the human voice as instrument and invocation and the haunting sounds of the trombone,” said Brenda Sisane, creative director of Journey to Jazz.
“This festival isn’t just about jazz — it’s about rooting the music in landscape, community, and culture. It’s about listening deeply.”
The morning continued with the People’s Concert, a free community showcase spotlighting the rising talent of the region, which was open to all and reflected the inclusive spirit of the festival.
Later in the day, the NG Kerk was the setting for the opening concert, where artistic director Kyle Shepherd led his celebrated trio in a performance that was both musically resonant and poetically aligned.
Known for its historic reverence and perfect acoustics, the NG Kerk has quickly become a sacred space for jazz during the festival.
Last night audiences were treated to the smooth brilliance of the Ernie Smith Band, closing a day rich in rhythm, soul and connection.
Elsewhere across town, the festival came alive with a host of Greet & Meet experiences, including the much-anticipated opening of the Back o’ The Moon photographic exhibition, which pays tribute to South Africa’s legendary jazz photographers and the visual memory of music and resistance.
Journey to Jazz runs from 1–4 May in Prince Albert and features world-class performances, intimate masterclasses, youth-led production, and immersive community experiences - all set against the cinematic backdrop of the Great Karoo.
Tickets are available on Quicket or at the door of all participating venues.
IOL Entertainment