The JPO Symphonic Jazz Festival 2026: A Tribute to South Africa’s Jazz Legacy

In celebration of Heritage Month, the Johannesburg Philharmonic Orchestra Symphonic Jazz Festival invites you to this year’s vibrant celebration of South African jazz.

The festival takes place at the Linder Auditorium on Thursday, 24 September 2026, offering a rich tapestry of jazz music that honours the country’s beautiful musical heritage. Here’s what you need to know.

Daniel Boco at Johannesburg Philharmonic Orchestra Symphonic Jazz Festival | What's On In Joburg — Daniel Boico

A collaborative showcase of South African jazz

For the 2026 edition of the Symphonic Jazz Festival, the Johannesburg Philharmonic Orchestra is conducted by Daniel Boico, who leads a stellar lineup of artists through a programme that includes Gershwin’s Porgy and Bess medley, Bernstein’s West Side Story medley, Ellington’s Nutcracker suite as well as South African compositions by Masondo and Ngonelo.

The performance features South African jazz veteran Victor Masondo on double bass and versatile pianist Lindi Ngonelo. Masondo has worked with global legends from Ce Ce Winans, Roy Hargrove and Steve Turre to Japanese singer Tokiko Kato.

He has also collaborated with the KZN Philharmonic Orchestra, Ringo Madlingozi, the United Nations Orchestra, Freshlyground, Ladysmith Black Mambazo, Shakira and plenty more and was even invited to arrange music in honour of Duke Ellington for the Duke Ellington Jazz festival held annually in Washington DC.

JPO Symphonic jazz festival Victor Masondo and Lindi Ngonelo | What's on in Joburg — Victor Masondo and Lindi Ngonelo

How to book tickets

No u/3s allowed. Wheelchair seating is available. Please call the JPO on 011 484 0446 or email [email protected], and they will assist with your booking.