Windhoek Jazz festival artists’ challenge set for Saturday

After a three-year absence, the Windhoek Jazz Festival is back, with the artists’ challenge show set for 19 August in Windhoek.
Lydia Amutenya, the spokesperson for the City of Windhoek, said the artists’ challenge will see eight local upcoming artists taking part. She said independent judges have already shortlisted the participants.

“The public can now vote for their favourite artists, whom they want to see on stage on 7 October. There are two voting lines – a voting line for established artists that will be open from 4 to 18 August 2023 and the upcoming artist voting line will open to the public from 7 to 19 August (voting is only applicable on the day of the event). It will cost N$2 per SMS and you can vote as many times as you want for your favourites artist,” she said.

Amutenya said the City of Windhoek, in partnership with various external stakeholders, has been hosting the Windhoek Jazz Festival since 2012. The last Windhoek Jazz Festival took place in 2019.

She said the festival holds great significance for its fans, residents of the city and the broader community for various reasons, such as cultural celebration, entertainment, economic impact, community cohesion, promoting local talent, tourism and city image and preservation of jazz music. She said by hosting the festival, the city plays a crucial role in preserving and promoting the jazz genre, ensuring this art form continues to thrive and evolve.

“Jazz is a music genre rich in history and cultural significance. The festival provides an opportunity for fans and residents to celebrate this distinctive genre. The festival offers an opportunity for residents and visitors to enjoy high-quality live music performances. This enhances the city’s entertainment offerings and provides a fun, memorable experience for those in attendance. The Windhoek Jazz Festival is not just a music event, it’s a significant cultural, social and economic happening that contributes to the vitality and diversity of Windhoek,” she said.

Amutenya said the event serves as a platform for local musicians to showcase their talent, gain exposure, especially for upcoming artists and connect with other artists.

“Events like the Jazz Festival can foster a sense of community among residents, as they come together to enjoy the music and the festive atmosphere. The festival attracts visitors to Windhoek, benefiting local businesses such as restaurants, hotels and retail shops. This influx of visitors helps stimulate the local economy. High-profile events like the Windhoek Jazz Festival can help raise the city’s profile and attract tourists, contributing to the city’s image as a vibrant and cultural hub,” Amutenya said.
The show kicks off at 19h30. Tickets are available at Webtickets N$100 and N$150 at the door.