Sunday, September 1, 2013 marks a particularly auspicious anniverary for the Johannesburg Arts Alive International Festival, and it’s opening event, the Jazz on the Lake concert. Celebrating 21 years of cultural diversity and sounds and rhythms from around the world, the Jazz on the Lake concert promises quality entertainment for Joburg families and visitors.
The event, unofficially recognised as the first day of spring, has become a firm favorite on the Johannesburg calendar. In its 21 years of existence, it’s played host to a high calibre of artists from a dizzying variety of nations, amongst them, Brazil, Benin, Mozambique, India, Senegal, Nigeria, Cameroon and the US , in a laid back setting, family-friendly setting .
This year’s event promises to live up to it’s proud tradition of beautiful music under the open skies. A stellar line up of artists reflects this commitment with the inclusion of Don Laka and mbaqanga legend PhuzeKhemisi. There’s also Afro pop-duo, Mafikizolo, contemporary gospel singer Brenda Mntambo; up coming talent in the Puisano Presents on Stage programme and international acts, the Satchmo Trumpet Summit from the US and Sufi Gospel Project from India.
This year’s performers are certainly thrilled to be participating on this memorable anniversary of the outdoor festival.
The father of Kwaai Jazz, Don Laka comments that“The Jazz on the Lake concert is like no other and I’m honoured to be returning to it and celebrating its 21 year feat,”
Phuzekhemisi , a leading maskandi musician in the country best known for his hit tune, Imbizo is equally excited to be part of the line up. “As Arts Alive celebrates 21 years, I celebrate the first time I’m featured on it’s bill. I’m excited about sharing with new audiences,” beams the KZN legend.
Afro-Pop stars Mafikizolo promise to add their trademark spice to the performance, saying, “We’re so grateful for every platform we get to promote our new album, as well as share our music from previous years. We’re so happy to reunite with them on beautiful platforms such as Jazz on the Lake.”
Formerly with Joyous Celebration, Brenda Mtambo has come into her own with a debut album called Inspired. Jazz on the Lake represents the fulfilment of a dream for her, as she explains that “I have song in my debut album called Iphupho Lami, which talks about my aspirations. And being invited to perform on stages such as Jazz on the Lake, is part of that dream coming true. I’m surely living my dream.”
Jazz on the Lake takes place at Zoo Lake from 11 am to 5. 30pm and it is free to the public.
