The Future of Jazz: Balancing tradition and innovation at CTIJF
The Cape Town International Jazz Festival's discussion event took place between musicians, jazz specialists, and leaders in the music industry at The Athletic Club & Social.
Image: Armand Hough/Independent Newspapers
As the Cape Town International Jazz Festival (CTIJF) approaches, industry experts convened at the Athletic Club and Social this week to discuss the evolution of jazz within an increasingly global and commercial music landscape.
The latest installment of the CTIJF Conversation Series, hosted by espAfrika, focused on "Redefining Jazz in the Global Festival Era."
Mariana del Carmen, espAfrika’s Talent Coordinator, led the discussion, exploring how jazz can innovate while staying true to its cultural heritage.
She reflected on the festival’s enduring impact, stating, “The CTIJF has always been about expanding the conversation around jazz. It’s not just a genre; it’s a platform for cultural dialogue and creativity. Our role is to ensure that jazz evolves while remaining connected to its roots and to the communities that sustain it.”
Attendees actively participated, sharing their insights on the genre's continuous evolution. A consensus emerged that jazz is not static and that the festival has been instrumental in expanding public perception of what constitutes jazz today.
The Cape Town International Jazz Festival's discussion event took place between musicians, jazz specialists, and leaders in the music industry at The Athletic Club & Social.
Image: Armand Hough/ Independent Newspapers
The discussion also addressed the challenges presented by large, commercially driven festivals, emphasizing the importance of balancing artistic integrity with financial viability. South Africa’s vibrant jazz scene was highlighted for its ongoing influence on both national and global narratives within the genre.
Tickets for CTIJF26, scheduled for 27 and 28 March 2026, are available via Ticketmaster at 2025 prices until 25 November. A buy-now-pay-later option is also available through Loot.co.za.