Some of the international greats who have performed include Keiko Matsui, Joe Sample, Earl Klugh, Dave Koz, Jamie Callum, Hugh Masekela, Lee Ritenour, Abdullah Ibrahim, Dianne Reeves, Joshua Redman, Ramsey Lewis, Branford Marsalis, Delfeayo Marsalis and The Count Basie Orchestra.

On the local scene, new talents like Concord Nkabinde, Jimmy Dludlu, Shannon Mowday and Siphokazi have been introduced.  And many long-time faithfuls have appeared - like Abigail Khubeka, Jonathan Butler, Johnny Clegg, Letta Mbulu, Caiphus Semenya, Thandie Klaasen, Jonas Gwangwa and the late Miriam Makeba.

Artists have have come from around the globe – from Japan, the US, the UK, Israel, the Netherlands, Germany, Switzerland, Norway, Spain and France.

Undoubtedly the premier event on Johannesburg’s jazz calendar, the 2009 Standard Bank Joy of Jazz will take place at six venues in the city’s Newtown precinct. The Dinaledi Stage and the Mbira Stage will be erected on Mary Fitzgerald Square, creating two purpose-built venues to showcase this year’s line-up. Other venues include The Market Theatre, The Bassline, Sophiatown and Nikki’s Oasis.

The Department of Arts and Culture, Gauteng  Tourism and South African Tourism  have continued to play an important role in marketing Standard Bank Joy of Jazz both within the country and to a worldwide audience while Audi continues as the official transport sponsor.

The 2009 Standard Bank Joy of Jazz is presented by Standard Bank and T-Musicman.

For more information on the line-up, venues go to www.standardbankjazz.co.za and www.tmusicman.co.za.