Making Jazz Accessible: Survé Philanthropies offers subsidised Cape Town International Jazz Festival tickets

In a bid to ensure that the rhythm of jazz reaches every corner of society, Survé Philanthropies has opened applications for subsidised tickets to the 2026 Cape Town International Jazz Festival (CTIJF).

The initiative, announced this week, is designed to remove financial barriers and promote community engagement, specifically targeting youth and senior groups, schools, and local organisations such as community centres and places of worship.

Now in its 23rd year, the CTIJF has cemented its reputation as Africa’s largest jazz festival. What began as a celebration of music has evolved into a hub for cultural exchange, drawing tens of thousands of fans annually to the Mother City. Beyond the main programme, the festival is known for nurturing emerging talent through workshops and masterclasses, ensuring the genre’s future remains bright.

This year’s push for accessibility is bolstered by a significant financial injection. The Survé Family Office has contributed an additional R100 million to support the festival, underpinning initiatives like the subsidised ticket drive. This commitment to inclusivity will be on full display ahead of the main event with the return of the beloved free concert at Greenmarket Square in Cape Town on March 25. Headliners Sheila E. & The E‑Train will be joined by South African powerhouses Zoë Modiga and Zolani Mahola, offering the public an early taste of the festival’s magic.

“Everyone should have an opportunity to experience the magic of jazz,” said Saarah Survé, Chair of Survé Philanthropies. “This initiative reflects Survé Philanthropies and the CTIJF’s shared commitment to accessibility, community, and the transformative power of music. By opening the festival to youth, seniors, schools, and community groups, it ensures that the magic of jazz reaches audiences who might not otherwise have the opportunity to attend.”

The 2026 line-up promises to be one for the ages, featuring a blend of international superstars and legendary local icons. Headliners include the multi-instrumentalist phenomenon Jacob Collier, jazz piano icon Abdullah Ibrahim, the evergreen Sipho “Hotstix” Mabuse, iconic US fusion group Yellowjackets, acclaimed muso Nduduzo Makhathini, and The Yussef Dayes Experience.

Applications for the subsidised tickets are now open. Interested parties are urged to complete the application form online to secure their chance to be part of Africa’s grandest jazz celebration.

IOL