Franschhoek, South Africa, 19 February 2026 – Prepare for a musical collision of continents as the Montreux Jazz Festival lands in Africa for the very first time. Montreux Jazz Festival Franschhoek (MJFSA), presented by Nedbank from 27–29 March 2026, has unveiled a stellar line-up that promises world-class artistry, intimate performances, and cultural exchange like never before.
This inaugural African edition will unfold across two distinctive hubs: The Arches Main Stage, located at the historic monument, and the cosy, atmospheric Jazz Village, housed within Franschhoek’s iconic church. Together, they set the stage for a festival that balances global heavyweights, pioneering African voices, genre-defying innovators, and rising talent.
Mark Goedvolk, MJFSA’s founder, explains: “Bringing the Montreux Jazz Festival to Africa has never been about replication – it’s about re-imagining what this legendary platform can become when rooted in African creativity, excellence and storytelling. Franschhoek provides the perfect canvas for an intimate, meaningful and globally resonant experience.”
The Arches Main Stage – Friday
The festival opens with The Kesivan amaBig Band Experience, led by South African drummer and composer Kesivan Naidoo. Other highlights include:
- Brother Kujenga (SA) – a fusion of Afro-futurism, soul, spoken word, and experimental rock, delivering a politically and spiritually charged performance.
- Wet Wet Wet (UK) – the Scottish pop legends behind hits like Love Is All Around, bringing timeless, melody-driven pop anthems.
- Róisín Murphy (Ireland) – acclaimed for her avant-garde art-pop and electrifying stagecraft.
The Arches Main Stage – Saturday
Saturday promises a thrilling mix of local and international talent:
- The Ploemies and Friends (SA) – Cape jazz groove collective opening the night with joyous improvisation.
- Billy Monama’s Guitar Convergence, Mandisi Dyantyis and Salif Keita
- Thandiswa Mazwai (SA) – cultural icon blending Afro-soul, Xhosa traditions, funk, and electronic textures.
- Ezra Collective (UK) – Mercury Prize-winning UK jazz ensemble celebrated for explosive live energy and Afro-diasporic groove.
- Robert Glasper with special guest Bilal (US) – modern jazz and neo-soul architects delivering a landmark collaboration.
Jazz Village – Friday
In the intimate Jazz Village, audiences can look forward to:
- Madala Kunene & Sibusisle Xaba (SA)
- Kesivan & The Lights ft Swiss Africa Horns & BONJ – showcasing a distinct repertoire from the big band, highlighting Kesivan Naidoo’s versatility.
- Stacey Kent (US) – Grammy-nominated vocalist renowned for her elegant phrasing and timeless jazz interpretations.
- Ramon Alexander Trio ft Buddy Wells (SA) – a blend of classic and modern jazz, featuring Stellenbosch pianist Ramon Alexander and saxophonist Buddy Wells.
Music curator Lindsay Rhoda emphasises: “Every artist has been chosen to move audiences emotionally, spiritually, and musically. From intimate Jazz Village performances to the grandeur of The Arches stage, this line-up offers discovery, celebration, and connection.”
Jazz Village – Saturday
Saturday continues with a celebration of legacy and innovation:
- Kwanti Leeh!
- Home at Last: A Tribute to Bheki Mseleku (SA) – presented by Gareth Lockrane and Bokani Dyer, paying homage to the late South African jazz visionary.
- “A Kind of Blue” (US) – Miles Davis centenary celebration featuring Eddie Henderson, Javon Jackson, Donald Harrison, George Colligan, Buster Williams, and Lenny White.
- Msaki presents ENTROPY: The Heart as an Echo Chamber ft Jesse Clegg (SA) – an intimate, soul-stirring exploration of love and renewal.
- The Kyle Shepherd Trio (SA) – Cape Town pianist Kyle Shepherd and collaborators Benjamin Jephta and Jono Sweetman delivering modern jazz infused with African resonance.
Sunday Slowdown – 29 March
The festival concludes with a relaxed, un-ticketed Sunday Slowdown along the Montreux Mile on Huguenot Street. While the main stages will be silent, the town will hum with music, public bars, food vendors, and a ‘wine down’ featuring local vignerons. A perfect day to soak up the cultural and culinary delights of Franschhoek.
Buli Ndlovu, Nedbank Executive Head of Personal and Private Banking Marketing, adds: “Nedbank is proud to support a festival that places African artistry at the centre of a global cultural conversation. Music has the power to unite, inspire and uplift, and MJFSA embodies this spirit.”
Tickets for the Jazz Village are live on Ticketmaster. For premium hospitality packages, contact: hospitality@mjfsa.com. For more information, visit www.mjfsa.com.
Montreux Jazz Festival Franschhoek promises an intimate, premium experience where global legends and African icons meet, creating a unique cultural and musical journey.