'A fresh new taste in jazz' awaits at the inaugural Irene Jazz Picnic

Gugs Mhlungu spoke to spoke to bassist, composer and educator, Carlo Mombelli.

Listen to their conversation in the audio clip below.

If you are a lover of all things jazz, then the inaugural Irene Jazz Picnic is for you.

The event is taking place on Sunday (31 March 2024) at the Irene Country Club in Centurion from 10am to 6pm.

The lineup for the day includes the multi-award-winning pianist and composer, Thandi Ntuli, newly reunited Carlo Mombelli & The Prisoners of Strange, and the Mthunzi Mvubu Quartet.

In addition to the musical performances, there will also be an Easter egg hunt for the kids along with other fun treats.

Event organisers are promising "a fresh new taste in jazz and food lifestyle experience with a family-friendly focus."

Food and drink stalls will be available at the venue, and no outside food and drinks are allowed.

Those attending are encouraged to pack picnic blankets and chairs.

Click here for tickets.

"We have such a rich heritage of jazz musicians. We've got an incredible abundance of unique jazz.”

- Carlo Mombelli, bassist, composer and educator

"We need more recognition that actually there is an audience for this because when we play, the audiences are coming.”

- Carlo Mombelli, bassist, composer and educator

Scroll up to listen to the full interview.