CTIJF LEGACY

In 2005, the event was officially renamed the Cape Town International Jazz Festival and relocated to the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC). The move marked a significant milestone in the festival’s growth, providing a larger and more sophisticated venue that has remained its home to this day.

In 2006, the Survé family took control of espAfrika, the company that hosts the festival.

A defining feature of the festival has been its commitment to showcasing a blend of South African talent alongside internationally acclaimed artists. This approach has helped position the CTIJF as a cultural meeting point for local and global jazz communities.

Over the years, the festival has also served as a platform for the evolution of jazz, offering opportunities for both established performers and emerging artists to reach new audiences. Educational initiatives and performance opportunities have played a central role in nurturing talent within the industry.

As part of its broader outreach, the festival introduced a free open-air concert at Greenmarket Square. The initiative has grown in popularity and has allowed members of the public to experience the festival beyond its ticketed venues.

By 2015, the festival’s line-up reflected its international standing, featuring artists from Africa, Europe and the Americas. Performers over the years have included Erykah Badu, Lauryn Hill, Dan Brubeck, James Ingram, Dave Koz, Earth, Wind & Fire, Hugh Masekela, Abigail Kubeka, Thandiswa Mazwai, Zoë Modiga, Jimmy Dludlu and Ari Lennox, among others.

Due to the global pandemic, the festival took a temporary break between 2020 and 2022. It returned in 2023 to the delight of music lovers. Since its return, the festival has only gone from strength to strength.

The Cape Town International Jazz Festival continues to position itself as more than a music event. Its focus remains on cultural development, artist empowerment and creating spaces for musical exchange through performances, workshops and educational programmes.