Johannesburg, South Africa — Get ready to experience the heartbeat of jazz innovation as the Standard Bank Joy of Jazz festival returns to its iconic home, the Sandton Convention Centre, on Friday, 25 September and Saturday, 26 September 2026.
As Africa’s premier jazz gathering, the Standard Bank JOY of JAZZ is a global phenomenon that attracts thousands of fans from the continent and beyond. Curating a jazz lifestyle of unparalleled scale, the festival reinvents itself annually fusing timeless classics with bold, innovative sounds that honour jazz's vibrant evolution.
The Standard Bank Joy of Jazz is a vibe like no other, spread across four stages that take you straight to the heart of the music. You’ve got the Dinaledi Stage, the festival’s crown jewel where world class stars bring the heat with everything from bebop to smooth jazz, and the Diphala Stage, a smooth lounge for soul stirring vocals and instrumental magic. The energy levels peak at the Conga Stage, where heavy African rhythms and global grooves get everyone moving in a hypnotic dance of unity, while the Mbira Stage weaves a world-class tapestry of Afro and neo-soul, blending local heritage with international flair to tell stories of identity and liberation.
Don't miss this continent shaking celebration of jazz's power to connect and inspire. Tickets go on sale soon stay tuned as we prepare to reveal this year’s stellar international and local lineup.
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The 2026 Standard Bank Joy of Jazz marks 27 years of Africa’s premier jazz festival. Produced by T-Musicman, the festival begins the journey into the next quarter century of unbroken excellence in music showcase, celebration of our heritage and elegant lifestyle rooted in the noble sound of jazz.
The Standard Bank Joy of Jazz takes place in the heart of Africa’s wealthiest square mile at the Sandton Convention Centre. It features four stages showcasing the best jazz musicians from across Africa and the world.
These are DINALEDI STAGE, CONGA STAGE, DIPHALA STAGE, MBIRA STAGE, over two nights with a series of activations across the city of Johannesburg and the surroundings in the lead up to the main event.
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