Artist Residency Exchange SA/USA

Our music exchange residency program bridges continents, blending the rich musical traditions of Africa and the Diaspora. In October 2023, as part of our inaugural US exchange artist in residence, South African multi-instrumental and composer Mark Fransman experienced an inspiring residency in the USA collaborating with jazz legends and mentoring emerging talent in Chicago and New York. In February 2024, TAJE welcomed our first American artist in residence, celebrated saxophonist, flautist and educator, Rene McLean. A musical visionary and former professor at the University of Cape Town, Rene’s return to South Africa was both a cultural exchange and heartfelt homecoming.

Masterclasses

We host masterclasses and workshops featuring accomplished jazz artists from SA and USA.

These sessions cover topics like jazz improvisation, composition, instrumental techniques, and the cultural roots of the African Diaspora.

Through performances, ensemble workshops and masterclasses, TAJE creates unique opportunities for audiences and artists alike.

Global Connection

Through our programs, musicians and students are introduced to a global network of artists, educators, and cultural leaders, fostering long-term partnerships and collaborations.

Mentorship and Networking

Young and emerging jazz artists have an opportunity to be mentored by experienced artists, learning not only the technical aspects but also the creative aspects of the art form as well as the importance of storytelling and cultural expression.

Community Outreach

We bring jazz to communities, especially in underrepresented and marginalized areas, through live performances and outreach programs. These events aim to inspire, educate, and engage audiences from diverse backgrounds.

Preserving Jazz Heritage

We highlight the rich histories of South African and American art form, celebrating the genre's legacy while exploring its modern evolution. Our events often include discussions, panels, and lectures/masterclasses on the cultural significance of the music.

Why TAJE

It is more than music- its about forging connections, celebrating shared histories, and inspiring a deeper understanding of our global community. Join us on this extraordinary journey, where the art form transcends boundaries and unites the world.

Lets connect Africa to the USA

Join TAJE and take part in a global jazz movement!
Perform with us, collaborate with top artists, and make an impact on generations to come.

72

Artists Partnered With

8

Cities Performed In

100

Gigs Completed

15

Outreach programmes

Some Past Highlights

Children's Workshop

We piloted our first Children's Workshop held on 6 August 2019 at The Willows Montessori School. The children music workshop included live performances by Afrobeat musician and co-founder Femi Koya and his band, with special featured guest, Pops Mohamed.

Youth Sponsorship

On 15 June 2019, 20 excited young kids from Khayelitsha were treated to their first ever live musical production and were accompanied by Waronx, who runs the Khayelitsha Music Academy.

Sponsorship of tickets for Khayelitsha Music School was for attendance of “Oratorio of a Forgotten Youth: Musical Reflections on the Youth of ‘76” curated by trumpeter, composer and band leader Mandla Mlangeni (Standard Bank 2019 Jazz Artist of the year).

Quotes from kids who attended:
“It was my first time at the theatre. I was excited to come to the theatre. I would definitely like to come here again." – Hluma Pasi
“I saw people singing and I want to see more people who are singing” – Lahluma Mlumbi

Quote from composer:
“Young people are our future audiences. We need to focus on them so that they can appreciate the arts. We do workshops in communities as well where we teach them how to play music. We need to expose them to music and if they like it then we can explore other possibilities. We need to keep spaces open." - Mandla Mlangeni, composer

Sponsorship of IMAD Students

On 9 November 2024, 50 music students from IMAD Khayelitsha were treated to their first ever live performance “Swing with the King” at Artscape in Cape Town.
They were accompanied by Balbalwa Meintjies, who runs the Khayelitsha IMAD project for your music learners

"They had an amazing time Sis thanks to you and your team they were talking about it even yesterday. Wooow you really made a huge impact in their lives. For some it was their first time to go to town let alone being at the Artscape. It was a dream come through. Stay blessed"

- Balbalwa Meintjies -

Sharpeville Youth Day

"On 21 March 2024, TAJE honored Sharpville Youth Day with a powerful public pop-up performance at the Sharpeville Memorial site, bringing music and remembrance together in the heart of Vereeniging township."

- TAJE Musician -

What we do