National Youth Jazz Orchestra
The National Youth Jazz Orchestra performed their passionate, innovative, and gifted hearts out at the Norfolk & Norwich Festival
When the clouds start to clear, making way for the sun to shine its glorious light over little old Norwich, one, you know that summer is nearing, and two, that the Norfolk & Norwich Festival is fast approaching. Gratefully, when it arrives, I have the pleasure of watching various gifted artists perform…this charming orchestra being one of them.
Founded in 1965, the National Youth Jazz Orchestra (NYJO) has been a major pillar in guiding youths through their musical careers. For decades they’ve uplifted and educated those simply curious in the artistry of jazz and community, to others driven by the goal of a career. With legends like Amy Winehouse under their name, it’s no wonder this organisation yields such success.
With this particular performance, NYJO sought an impactful show. A Tribute to Abdullah Ibrahim - the South African composer and pianist known for his masterful work as a musician. His music explores the vast subgenres of Jazz, from a gospel, to a classic and modern take on the genre. However, and most notably, Abdullah Ibrahim is known for his influence in South African township jazz. So much so that anti-apartheid activist Nelson Mandela is cited referring to Ibrahim as South Africa’s very own Mozart.
Early on in his life during the 60’s, Ibrahim formed the Jazz Epistles, their music arguably helped shape and pave the way for the black Jazz music scene in South Africa, particularly at a time where apartheid laws pushed back at him and his then band members in slews of injustice. In slight of this, Ibrahim's jazz music brought those seen as “different” together. Jazz, at that time, became symbolic, a way to resist a political system that repressed and segregated them. Ibrihim wasn’t just an artist, but a political figure that resisted an oppressive regime. Which is why it is paramount that we remember, honour, and represent musicians like Abdullah Ibrahim, an amazing honour that the National Youth Orchestra does brilliantly.
Their performance started off with a symphony of instruments played by the various youths that make up this orchestra. Their pianist, Lucas, introduced their performance on a bright note. Gradually accompanied by percussionists, guitars, a trombone, a trumpet, and unforgettably, a saxophone, I was sent into the world of good jazz music.
One moment I cannot forget was during the second song when we were introduced to another instrument, one that truly made the orchestra a whole; the vocals. Two incredibly talented young women, Rhiannon and Anna introduced themselves by singing one of South Africa’s National Anthems named ‘Have Mercy Oh Africa’, enunciating every word with a proficiency that gave me chills. There was no backing at this moment, just their voices and it was enough, delightfully so.
The orchestra played two of their own composed versions of South Africa’s national anthems of which, I was informed, there are eleven versions of in various languages. Since we were short on time, we only got two. Despite this, I could not complain. Their renditions brought the room together, heads politely bobbed along in the crowd, feet tapped to the beat. I don’t blame them, though. It was addictive to listen to.
In between songs, we were educated and informed about the history behind the music. I appreciated the newfound knowledge which emphasised just how important music can be and what those who created it had to endure. Abdullah Ibrahim will continue to be a legend in the jazz world, and today informed a lot of us on exactly why.
One endearing thing that I must note, though, was watching the orchestra's infectious enthusiasm transcend on stage. They worked in tandem through rhythms and crescendos, oftentimes admiring one another as they worked whatever instruments they played. It was incredibly charming, and I hate to repeat myself but it truly was endearing. It is rare to be a part of or see the origins of someone’s career whilst they honour another, but tonight, I got to be a part of that, for I have no doubt in my mind that these young jazz musicians will go far.
