Reconnecting communities through music, heritage, and shared experiences is one of the key motivations that saw the establishment of the Cape Town Jazz Train (CTJT).
And now Capetonians and music enthusiasts get to hop on board a train while being whisked away by the soulful tunes of local acts while travelling to selected venues.
The project, which launched in January this year, was formed by local band Jazz in the Native Yards under the banner of Uloliwe Jazz Voyage non-profit company (NPC).
The NPC aims to utilise communal modes of transport (train/ bus) in the celebration of jazz as a vehicle for cultural diversity building, community engagement and tourism.
It is run in partnership with Prasa and the provincial Department of Sport and Cultural Affairs, and Heineken beverages.
Nono Nkoane, chief operating officer of Cape Town Jazz Train, said: “The CTJT was born from a deep appreciation for the historical connection between train travel and South African music, particularly jazz.
“Historically, trains played a significant role in shaping South Africa’s cultural and social landscape – connecting communities, influencing musical traditions, and serving as a space where stories, rhythms, and ideas were exchanged.”
She says they were inspired by the idea of trains not just as a means of transportation, but as moving cultural spaces where people from different walks of life can come together to celebrate jazz, heritage, and community.
“This project also aligns with global trends of music tourism and experiential travel, where cultural experiences become as important as the destination itself.”
Nkoane said the CTJT is more than an event.
“It’s about reconnecting communities through music, heritage, and shared experiences.
“It’s more than just a train ride, it’s a cultural movement that brings people together through live jazz performances, guided heritage tours, and community-driven economic development.
She adds that their purpose is to celebrate and promote South Africa’s jazz legacy by creating platforms for established and emerging artists.
“And reimagine train travel as a cultural experience that highlights the stories, history, and artistic richness of the communities along the railway line.”
She explains that through this initiative, they want to ignite a sense of pride, ownership, and community engagement while positioning Cape Town as a leading city for creative and transformative tourism.
“To stimulate township economies by incorporating local vendors, artists, and small businesses into the CTJT ecosystem, ensuring that the benefits of cultural tourism are felt at a grassroots level.”
She explains that CTJT currently runs as a curated experience with scheduled events, rather than a daily service.
“The pilot phase has included journeys to places like Langa, Muizenberg, and Woodstock, with plans to expand to other railway-linked destinations such as the Cape Winelands, Kalk Bay, and Simon’s Town.
In future the CTJT will operate seasonally: with the first leg running between February and April this year and the second leg kicking off August this year to April next year.
“During our winter break, we will focus on growing our community, hosting jazz-related discussions, and developing creative content to keep our audience engaged.
“Whether you’re a local resident, a tourist, or a jazz aficionado, CTJT is an opportunity to connect with people, experience world-class music, and immerse yourself in Cape Town’s rich cultural tapestry.”
The next event will take place on Monday 16 June when the train will head off to the Nederburg Wine Farm in Paarl.
Nkoane says as part of their vision to nurture the next generation of jazz talent, they are committed to youth involvement and mentorship.
“We are exploring collaborations with music rights organisations to develop a programme that empowers young artists. This initiative will provide aspiring musicians with opportunities for growth while preserving and advancing South Africa’s rich jazz heritage.
“More details will be shared as the programme takes shape.”
Anyone wanting to experience the train can purchase a ticket for a scheduled Jazz Train experience. These include live jazz performances on the train, guided heritage walks, and concerts at various venues.
“By following our social media pages we’ll be sharing updates, behind-the-scenes stories, and upcoming event details. Become a volunteer or collaborator, we encourage local businesses, musicians, and cultural practitioners to reach out and explore ways to get involved.”
Nkoane explains that they hope to redefine how people experience jazz, culture, and public spaces by making heritage tangible, music accessible, and communities central to the cultural economy.
“We are also excited about our ongoing discussion with the University of the Western Cape, Centre for Humanities Research (CHR) which will provide critical insights into the historical and socio-economic impact of train travel in South Africa and its relationship with jazz.
“This research will help us refine our approach and solidify CTJT’s role as a global model for cultural tourism and social innovation. We invite everyone to come on board, support this initiative, and be part of something truly unforgettable,” she concludes.
Ricardo Mackenzi, provincial minster for cultural affairs and sport, said the department is committed to supporting innovative platforms that bring people together through the arts.
This initiative is a first of its kind in the province in terms of scale and format. The Jazz Train is more than a mode of transport—it’s a moving celebration of our rich musical legacy. Jazz has deep roots in the Western Cape, and by hosting live performances and cultural exchanges on board, the train transforms into a space that honours this tradition.”
Mackenzi encouraged the public to support and ensure the success of the initiative
“By attending, audiences not only enjoy a unique cultural experience, but also directly contribute to the growth of the local creative economy. Supporting this initiative helps sustain livelihoods in the arts, encourages innovation, and reaffirms the value of culture as something that belongs to everyone. It’s a joyful way to invest in our shared heritage.”
For more information email info@capetownjazztrain.org.za
