Jazz season kicks off at St Joseph’s

TALENTED high school bands will get an opportunity to share the stage with some of Cape Town’s favourite musicians at the Jazz on the Lawn festival at St Joseph’s Marist College in Rondebosch on Human Rights Day.

The event, now in its sixth year, raises funds for children who cannot afford musical lessons. Seven high school bands will perform with celebrated local artists Jimmy Nevis, Jeremy Olivier and ShenFM.

“Human Rights Day is about humanity, freedom, justice, peace and equality. I believe that kids who can’t afford certain opportunities are being denied the right to equality, which is why we have this jazz festival to raise bursary funds for them,” says Alexis Petro, who heads the department of music, arts and culture at St Joseph’s.

This year’s festival is very much a celebration of local talent as all the main artists are from the city.

“Nothing brings people together more than food and music. Our main artists are role models to our youth, artists who are willing to give back to grassroots,” Petro says.

Jazz on the Lawn will start at 11am and finish at 7pm on Tuesday. Tickets are available from the school, at the gate and at a discounted rate via Webtickets.

Heart FM will broadcast live and there will be food stalls, a bar area and kiddies’ entertainment.