Standard Bank Joy of Jazz partners with North Sea Jazz

Standard Bank will be associated with the North Sea Jazz Festival as a Gold Sponsor from 1 January 2002.

The Standard Bank Joy of Jazz brand has earned a reputation, both locally and internationally, as one of South Africa's most enduring musical icons. The sponsorship of the popular Cape Town-based festival strengthens and supports the character and integrity of the brand as a leading role player in this country's development of jazz.

Mandie van der Spuy, Arts Sponsorships Manager of Standard Bank, says: "The North Sea Jazz Festival in the Hague, Netherlands, is regarded as one of the top three jazz festivals in the world. The festival in South Africa has exceeded all expectations and has become one of the leading brands on the local jazz scene. The calibre of musicians showcased and the appeal to an international audience has made the event one of the top festivals in the country.

"Standard Bank has seen this as an excellent opportunity to further entrench their commitment to the promotion of jazz both locally and internationally. The Standard Bank Joy of Jazz circuit has proven an extremely successful brand and the association with the North Sea Jazz Festival is a natural progression. We are extremely proud to be part of a festival of this stature."

Sub-titled "Africa's Grandest Gathering", the Cape Town North Sea Jazz Festival cemented its position in 2001 as a highlight on the international jazz calendar.

The North Sea Jazz Festival is responsible for the biggest annual media spectacles and more than 20 000 jazz lovers attended the two-day event earlier this year. This makes it a benchmark music event that plays a major role in the development of the Western Cape Province's tourism industry and the unification of diverse music loving communities in the province.

The Standard Bank Joy of Jazz circuit is renown for showcasing the cream of South African talent and some of the best international jazz artists at its various festivals. Since its inception the circuit employed hundreds of artists and provided a launch platform for countless entry-level musicians who are now regarded as the cream of South Africa's performers.

The bank's association with the North Sea Jazz Festival will allow it to further and facilitate its employment and development initiatives in the South African music arts industry.

For more on Standard Bank Joy of Jazz call 011 636 2346 or visit http://www.joyofjazz.co.za.

Members of the media may contact Lakwela Communications on 011 465 9655.