Getting into the swing of things

THIS weekend Cape Town again hosts the largest celebration of jazz on our continent, the Cape Town International Jazz Festival, an event that puts a swing in the step of more than just jazz aficionados.

Back in 2000 about 14 000 people attended. This weekend organisers anticipate about 37 000 visitors, many from out of town.

This influx represents a welcome extension to the tourist season, which peaks during the summer holidays.

The event showcases the best of local and international acts and entertains fans while encouraging aspirant musos.

Its economic benefits are not to be sneezed at. It is estimated to boost the city’s economy by about R700 million, providing direct employment to about 3 000 people.

And the benefits extend to the less tangible. There are outreach performances including the hugely popular annual free concert in the city centre, considered the opening event of the festival. There are also a number of fringe events hosted by other jazz outfits, cashing in on the rhythm that grips our city at festival time.

The festival includes a series of workshops designed to develop young musicians, arts writers and photographers at which international and professional musicians interact and share their knowledge of technique and the business of music.

Whether the line- up is considered pure jazz or not, the festival continues to acknowledge the achievement of local artists.

This year, the festival remembers Hugh Masekela in a tribute performance on the Kippies stage.

Tonight, musicians young and old will perform for the joy and pleasure of audiences in the true spirit of jazz.