Organised by Christopher Duigan, one of South Africa’s leading concert pianists, both concerts are set to delight audiences with a collection of classic South African jazz and violin masterpieces performed by acclaimed local and international musicians.

Musicians performing in The Best of SA Jazz are Neil Gonsalves on piano, Bruce Baker on drums, Ildo Nanja on bass and Mike Rossi on saxophones. They play a brilliant introduction to the classic South African repertoire including hit numbers Tsakwe/Royal Blue and Manenberg from Abdullah Ibrahim, Pata and Meadowlands. The concert features music by Winston Mankunku Ngoni, Duke Makazi, Pat Matshikiza and Bheki Mseleku and will be introduced by Mike Rossi, professor of Jazz at the University of Cape Town.

Violin Favourites will feature Joanna Frankel and Christopher Duigan. Frankel is a Juilliard graduate and concertmaster of the KwaZulu-Natal Philharmonic Orchestra and has received rave reviews for her superb classical performances, most notably her concert engagements with the KwaZulu-Natal Philharmonic Orchestra.

Renowned classical pianist Duigan is a Steinway artist who has performed extensively with all leading South African orchestras, including the KwaZulu-Natal Philharmonic, Cape Philharmonic and Johannesburg Philharmonic Orchestras in a repertoire of more than 25 concerti. In recital he has achieved a popular following through his innovative presentation and programming featuring a broad and eclectic taste in music.

“We are delighted to bring these talented jazz and classical musicians to the Hilton Arts Festival stage this year,” said Simon Pearse, CEO of Marriott. “This is the third year we have made such concerts readily accessible, and it is gratifying to see how popular they have become at an event which is known as one of the country’s foremost cultural experiences.”

The Best of SA Jazz will be presented on Saturday, 19 September at 15:00. Violin Favourites will be performed on Sunday, 20 September at 16:00. Both concerts are 70 minutes long and take place in the Chapel. They are free of charge thanks to Marriott’s sponsorship.

Booking is essential and can be made on the Hilton Festival website.