The concert will be held in association with Classic FM, and will give audiences the rare chance to witness these world-class musicians in action.
Ekaya's line-up features Beldon Bullock (bass) and George Gray (drums), both part of the Abdullah Ibrahim Trio, and is augmented by Cleave Guyton (alto sax, flute), Keith Loftis, (tenor sax), Andrea Murchison (trombone) and Jason Marshall (baritone sax). All are highly respected jazz musicians based in New York.
During their May 2009 South African performances, Ibrahim and Ekaya presented a close to three-hour concert that made full use of Ibrahim's talent as a band leader and of the members of Ekaya's performance skills.
Ibrahim promises uniquely mesmerising music. “But of course it's not going to be the same as what we have done before” he said. “We will be playing with a different set programme and, even then, in the middle of it we may go off in a different direction. You never know what's going to happen.”
Ibrahim's recent 2008 solo studio album Senzo earned him this year's South African Music Award (SAMA) for Best Male Artist.
Ibrahim's visit to South African will also include auditions for the Department of Arts and Culture funded New South African Orchestra that will draw on young and established jazz and classical talent from across the country.
Auditions for New South African Orchestra
Auditions for the New South African Orchestra will be held at the Wits Great Hall on 5 and 6 October, with a rehearsal taking place on 7 October for a segment to be included on the birthday show at the Linder Auditorium.
As part of this commitment to giving back and impacting the local music landscape, Ibrahim is also working with the WDR Cologne Radio Big Band and members of Ekaya on a host of community programmes, including inaugurating a marching band initiative in South Africa with George Gray.
Tickets for Abdullah Ibrahim and Ekaya's 75th birthday concert are available at Computicket at R200 and R225 (excluding service charge)
