The South African jazz lexicon has been shaped by the hands of a few, and Errol Dyers contributed hugely to the nuances of Cape jazz. In dedication to this much-loved guitarist Artscape Theatre Centre’s is staging a Jazz Masters: Tribute to the Legends concert series, which is due to be showcased from 28 – 30 September.
Also on the bill
Dyers, was originally scheduled to perform within this 3-day event. His death, however has given impetus to the opportunity to honour his legacy. The legendary musician was billed to share the stage with Hilton Schilder, McCoy Mrubata and Sylvia Mdunyelwa.
While the three-day showcase will pay tribute to a legend well-known as one of the pioneers of goema, the final production on 30 September will specifically be dedicated to his legacy as his brother, Alvin Dyers and his band take to the stage playing some of his songs as a tribute.
Says Artscape Theatre Centre CEO, Marlene le Roux: “The death of Errol is an immense loss to the arts and culture world. As a nation we are fortunate to have had such as person as Errol –an Icon who shaped our freedom through song, utilising his music as part of the tradition of resistance against Apartheid. He continuously strived towards inclusivity of all – an ethos which equally shapes the objectives of our theatre. Myself and the Artscape staff offer our most sincere condolences to his beloved wife, family, friends and the music industry at large.”
Listen to ‘Kou Kou Wa’ and ‘Sonesta’
Says Craig Parks, Associate Producer for the Jazz Master Series: “If there is anything Errol wanted was to get South African music on the platform it deserves, especially Cape Town music. He always believed that Cape Town music should be able to tell the stories of our people, our city and our country and he was always the guy encouraging musicians to make their music into a story that people could identify, especially Cape jazz”
Dyers died recently after a lengthy bout with emphysema. He was 65. His albums included Kou Kou Wa, Sonesta, The Best Of.
Jazz Masters: Tribute to the Legends forms part of the venue’s Heritage Festival. It will also include a concert by Dizu Plaatjies, who will take listeners on a “road trip” from Cape Town to the homelands of Emampondweni and back to showcase the past and present work of his musical journey.
What: Jazz Masters: Tribute to the Legends
Where: Artscape Theatre Centre, Foreshore, Cape Town
When: 28 – 30 September, 2017
Tickets: www.computicket.co.za, Artscape-Dial-a-Seat 021 421 7695
WS
