Cape Town International Jazz Festival to expand beyond the Mother City in 2027

Dr Iqbal Survé honours the late, great Abdullah Ibrahim with a moving and inspiring tribute at the launch of the 2027 Cape Town International Jazz Festival.

Image: Daniele van der Merwe

The Cape Town International Jazz Festival (CTIJF) is set to enter a transformative new era in 2027, with organisers announcing plans to expand beyond the Mother City while honouring the enduring legacy of South African jazz icon Abdullah Ibrahim.

The vision for the festival's next chapter was unveiled on Friday evening at Youngblood-Africa Gallery in Cape Town, where industry leaders, artists and partners gathered for the official 2027 launch. Organisers described the upcoming edition as a "vibrant rebirth" that will preserve the festival's jazz heritage while broadening its national footprint and creating more opportunities for emerging musicians.

Speaking at the launch, philanthropist and businessman Dr Iqbal Survé revealed that new funding has been secured to support the festival's expansion into Johannesburg and Durban, allowing the brand to grow beyond its traditional Cape Town home.

Survé said the expansion is not simply about staging more events, but about creating platforms where young musicians can develop, perform and gain exposure, ensuring the future of South African jazz is nurtured for generations to come.

The 2027 edition will also pay tribute to Abdullah Ibrahim, whose final public performance took place at this year's festival before his passing.

Survé reflected on his long friendship with the legendary pianist, recalling how Ibrahim once stayed at his family home in Rondebosch and insisted on performing on a particular piano.

He shared how the instrument had to be specially transported so Ibrahim could play on the piano he wanted, describing it as one of many memories that illustrated the musician's unwavering commitment to his craft.

Survé also revealed that Ibrahim had expressed a heartfelt wish for the Cape Town International Jazz Festival to continue long into the future. Looking back, he said one conversation now carries particular significance.

"He didn't want the jazz festival to come to an end," Survé recalled, adding that Ibrahim had spoken in a way that suggested he felt he might not be present for the next edition.

The emotional tribute underscored the festival's commitment to preserving Ibrahim's legacy while investing in the next generation of artists.

Co-director Georgia Jones said the 2027 festival represents "a vibrant rebirth of Africa's Grandest Gathering", blending its rich jazz lineage with a bold new vision designed to inspire younger audiences.

Jones added that the festival's refreshed direction is about evolving without losing sight of its foundations.

Jones said: "CTIJF 2027 marks a vibrant rebirth of Africa's Grandest Gathering. While we remain deeply rooted in the rich, historic jazz lineage our audiences love, we are introducing a bold new shape designed to inspire a new generation. This evolution is all about pushing creative boundaries, championing African brilliance, and delivering an electrified, world-class festival experience that will truly bring our beautiful city to life."

With plans to honour one of South Africa's greatest musical pioneers while extending its reach into Durban and Johannesburg, the Cape Town International Jazz Festival is positioning its 2027 edition as both a celebration of legacy and an investment in the future of jazz.

CTIJF co-directors Georgia Jones and Carolyn Savage share exciting news about the expansion of the festival at its 2027 launch party.

Image: Daniele van der Merwe

Fellow co-director Carolyn Savage added that the next phase of the festival will create new opportunities for partners while strengthening its role as a platform for African creativity and cultural exchange.

Speaking at the launch, Savage said the 2027 edition represents "an exciting new phase of growth and innovation" for Africa's biggest jazz festival.

"The launch of the 2027 programme signals an exciting new phase of growth and innovation for the Cape Town International Jazz Festival. Beyond the exceptional artistry audiences, this new chapter offers meaningful opportunities for brands and sponsors to align with a globally recognised cultural event deeply rooted in community and creativity. We are inviting partners to join us in shaping immersive, authentic experiences that connect with diverse audiences and contribute to the continued growth of Africa's premier jazz festival," said Savage.

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