Acclaimed South African vocalist Zoë Modiga will deliver a special sunset performance in the Swartberg Mountains as part of the Journey to Jazz 2026 programme, promising one of the most memorable moments of this year’s festival.
The site-specific performance will take place on the iconic Swartberg Pass on Friday, 1 May 2026, where audiences will experience music in direct dialogue with one of South Africa’s most dramatic natural landscapes.
Widely regarded as one of the country’s most compelling contemporary African voices, Modiga is known for blending jazz, soul and African musical traditions into performances that are both intimate and expansive. Her music draws deeply on identity, heritage and storytelling, creating emotionally resonant live experiences.
On shaping a performance for this extraordinary setting, Modiga says the opportunity reflects the spirit of artistic exploration that defines Journey to Jazz.
“We are honoured to be invited to join the spirited sonic landscapes that will be explored at the Swartberg Pass for Journey to Jazz 2026. My music identity is rooted in a contemporary, modern African expression that is grounded in its legacy. We look forward to sharing that with the audience with a heartfelt acoustic set and trust that memorable, collective magic will be made.”
Her performance forms part of Journey to Jazz’s signature programme, where music meets landscape in ways that move beyond traditional concert formats. Created specifically for this setting, the performance will showcase the depth of Modiga’s vocal range and artistic expression in an immersive environment shaped by the natural surroundings.
Modiga’s critically acclaimed albums, including Yellow: The Novel and Inganekwane, have established her reputation as a storyteller capable of creating deeply personal yet universally relatable musical experiences. Whether performing on international stages or in stripped-back acoustic environments, her work is defined by authenticity and emotional connection.
Organisers have also confirmed a venue change for the highly anticipated Kyle Shepherd | Kentridge Films performance. The performance will now take place at the NG Kerk to accommodate strong demand, with the date and time remaining unchanged.
The evening will feature the world premiere of a newly commissioned score by Kyle Shepherd, created specifically for Journey to Jazz by the Prince Albert Community Trust. The commission reflects the festival’s commitment to supporting new South African work and contributing to the evolution of jazz locally and internationally.
Brenda Sisane, Creative Director, says the programme reflects the festival’s focus on creating deeply meaningful cultural experiences.
“This year’s programme speaks to what Journey to Jazz has always set out to do – to create moments that are deeply felt, not just observed. The Swartberg Pass performance is one of those moments where music, memory and landscape meet in a way that cannot be replicated.”
Presented by the Prince Albert Community Trust, Journey to Jazz contributes to youth development, skills training and opportunity in Prince Albert and surrounding communities, ensuring that the festival’s impact extends beyond the stage.
Now in its fourth year, Journey to Jazz continues to distinguish itself through authenticity, intimacy and purpose, offering audiences a deeper connection to music, place and community.
Event details
Journey to Jazz Festival 2026
Prince Albert, Western Cape
30 April – 3 May 2026
Swartberg Pass Performance
Zoë Modiga
Friday, 1 May 2026
Kyle Shepherd | Kentridge Films Performance
Saturday, 2 May 2026
Tickets available via Quicket
