A powerful new voice joins one of the festival’s most anticipated moments and Kyle Shepherd’s world premiere performance moves to a bigger stage
Prince Albert, Western Cape – Journey to Jazz is proud to announce that acclaimed South African vocalist Zoë Modiga will perform a special sunset celebration tailored specifically for the Swartberg Pass on Friday, 1 May 2026, in what promises to be one of the most memorable moments of this year’s festival.
Widely regarded as one of South Africa’s most compelling African contemporary voices, Modiga brings a rare depth of musicality, storytelling and emotional resonance to the stage – qualities that make her uniquely suited to the raw, elemental setting of the Swartberg Mountains.
On shaping a performance for this extraordinary setting, Modiga shares: “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 site-specific programme, where music meets landscape in a way that transcends the traditional concert experience. Created especially for this setting, the work will showcase the full breadth of Modiga’s vocal range and artistic expression – an expansive, deeply immersive performance shaped in dialogue with the mountain itself.
A Voice for This Place and Moment
Zoë Modiga’s music is rooted in identity, heritage and emotional truth. A multi-award-winning artist, she has become known for her ability to move seamlessly between jazz, soul and African musical traditions, creating performances that are both intimate and expansive.
Her critically acclaimed albums, including Yellow: The Novel and Inganekwane, have cemented her reputation as a storyteller of rare sensitivity – one who draws audiences into a deeply personal yet universally resonant experience.
Whether performing on major international stages or in stripped-back acoustic settings, Modiga has an extraordinary ability to connect – making her an ideal artist for Journey to Jazz’s philosophy of music as conversation rather than spectacle.
Music Meets Landscape
The Swartberg Pass performance has quickly become one of the defining experiences of Journey to Jazz – a moment where audience, artist and environment come into alignment.
As the sun sets over the Karoo and the mountains shift in colour and light, the music unfolds in a way that feels both grounded and transcendent.
In 2026, Zoë Modiga’s voice will carry through this landscape, joining wind, silence and sky in a performance that promises to be both intimate and unforgettable.
A landmark world premiere moves to a bigger stage
Organisers have also confirmed a venue change for the highly anticipated Kyle Shepherd | Kentridge Films performance. While the date and time remain unchanged, the performance will now take place at the NG Kerk to accommodate strong demand for this landmark presentation.
The evening marks the world premiere of a newly commissioned score by Kyle Shepherd, created specifically for Journey to Jazz by the Prince Albert Community Trust (PACT) – a significant artistic moment that has drawn exceptional interest from audiences.
All tickets remain valid. Date of performance is Saturday 2 May 2026 at 20H45.
Brenda Sisane, Creative Director, says: “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. Welcoming Zoë into this space reflects the continuity and care with which this festival is curated. At the same time, commissioning new work – such as Kyle Shepherd’s score – is part of our commitment to contributing meaningfully to the evolution of South African jazz.”
Presented by the Prince Albert Community Trust (PACT), Journey to Jazz is more than a music festival. Every ticket sold contributes to youth development, skills training and opportunity in Prince Albert and the surrounding region – ensuring that the festival’s impact extends far beyond the stage.
Now in its fourth year, Journey to Jazz continues to distinguish itself through intimacy, authenticity 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