Press Release

29 January 2025. 

TransAtlantic Jazz Exchange Brings World-Class Talent to South Africa for a Masterclass Series, Musician Cultural Exchange and Live Performance Events. From 7 February to 11 March 2025. 

The countdown has begun! The highly anticipated TransAtlantic Jazz Exchange (TAJE) Masterclass, Workshop, and Concert Series kicks off on the 7th of February with Experience the Music: a Night of Jazz at Joseph Stone Auditorium in Athlone, Cape Town, bringing an extraordinary fusion of South African and American jazz excellence straight to you. 

Join the TransAtlantic Jazz Exchange Masterclass Series Online! 
Whether you’re a budding musician, a jazz enthusiast, or an educator, this program is a first-of- its-kind opportunity to experience world-class music education and mentorship, accessible from anywhere in the world via Zoom.

In the words of co-founder, Nasia Seria: “Through TAJE's transformative initiatives, cultural dialogue thrives alongside artistic collaboration, uplifting communities with every harmonious note." 

An Enriching Music Education Program Like No Other. The TAJE Masterclass Series offers an unprecedented chance to learn from some of the most celebrated names in jazz. With a stellar lineup of internationally acclaimed jazz musicians, the Masterclass Series offer participants a chance to explore diverse topics such as; 
Rene McLean (USA): “Digging Deep – The Concepts & Philosophy of Jackie McLean.” (15 Feb 2025 – In Person, Online)
Ron Scott (USA) & Simon Ndlovu (SA): “Jazz for the Struggle and the Struggle for Jazz – Jazz as a Medium for Social and Political Advocacy.” (18 Feb – In Person, Online) 
Pops Mohamed (SA): Ancient Wisdom in Modern Times. (20 Feb 2025 – In Person, Online) Ahmed Abdullah (USA): Insights into the Music and Philosophy of Sun Ra. (20 Feb 2025 - Online)
Chantal Willie-Petersen (SA): “The Woman Who Raised Us.” (25 Feb – In Person, Online) Melanie Dyer & Gwen Laster (USA): “20th & 21st Century African American String Improvisers.” (25 Feb - Online) 
Hilton Schilder (SA): “My Sonic Lexicon.” (4 March – In person, Online)
Will Calhoun (USA): “Rhythm Renaissance – Exploring the Global Rhythms That Shape Jazz.” (4 March - Online) 

—this program blends cultures, ideas, and expertise to create a transformative learning experience. From exploring the philosophy of jazz great Jackie McLean to delving into indigenous African musical traditions and the role of jazz in social advocacy, each session is a deep dive into the heart and soul of jazz as a universal language. 

Attend from Anywhere. 
No matter where you are, you can be part of this incredible journey. The entire series is available online via Zoom, making it easier than ever to learn from global jazz icons. Each session is just a click away—ready to inspire, challenge, and elevate your understanding of music. 

Reserve Your Seat Today.
Seats for this groundbreaking program are filling up fast! Visit the Bookings Page at www.transatlanticjazzexchange.org or Quicket to secure your spot. 

💻 Special Pricing for Students and Schools:
To ensure accessibility, discounted pricing is available for students and schools. Simply email info@taje.org.za to request special rates and join this movement to bring jazz education to all. Bringing Jazz to the People. The - Experience the Music - public concerts featuring Kojo and Antoine Roney as well as acclaimed local musicians Mark Fransman, Chantal Willie-Peterson and friends will be taking place in:
        -  Cape Town at Joseph Stone Auditorium in Athlone on the 7th of February 2024, 19:00.
        -  McGregor at Villa Wahnfried on the 8th of February 2025, 19:30.
        -  Johannesburg at the University of Witwatersrand - Wits Music Room on the 15th of February, 19:00.
        -  Benoni at Music Academy of Gauteng (MAG) on the 13th of February 2025, 18h30.
        -  Eersterust at Tshwane School of Music on the 14th of February 2025, 18h30. 

These performances aim to unite communities through the healing power of music, featuring collaborations between U.S. and South African artists. 

Join the Movement. 
This is more than just an event—it’s a celebration of the power of jazz to unite and inspire across borders. Don’t miss your chance to be part of the TransAtlantic Jazz Exchange, where music becomes a bridge to a brighter, more connected future. 

Dates:
●  Masterclass Series: February 15 – March 11, 2025
●  Concerts: February 7–15, 2025
●  School workshops: February 6-17, 2025 

For the full schedule and more information, visit www.transatlanticjazzexchange.org. 

Let’s make history together, one note at a time! 

Press Contact: 
Nasia Seria Co-Founder nasia@taje.org.za 
Ph 083 200 8707 
Website: www.transatlanticjazzexchange.org 
Facebook: @transatlantic Jazz Exchange 
Instagram: @transatlanticjazzexchange 

Release Prepared by Scribe Studios