[Stellenbosch 19 June] – The International Association of Music Libraries, Archives and Documentation Centres (IAML) Congress is thrilled to announce a special performance by Zimbabwean-born jazz guitarist Louis Mhlanga on Monday, June 24, at the Endler Hall. This event promises to be a highlight of the congress, which runs from June 23 to 28 at the Konservatorium, marking the first time the IAML Congress is held on African soil.

Louis Mhlanga, celebrated as one of the finest African jazz guitarists of our time, will be joined by an outstanding rhythm section featuring top South African musicians: Schalk Joubert on bass, Jonno Sweetman on drums, and Blake Hellaby on piano. Additionally, the performance will include a special guest appearance by local songstress Sima Mashazi.

Mhlanga's repertoire for this performance will showcase original compositions by himself, Joubert, and Mashazi, as well as iconic South African jazz standards. The audience will experience a rich tapestry of languages through music, including Shona, isiZulu, isiXhosa, Afrikaans, and English.

Schalk Joubert, a longtime collaborator with Mhlanga, praises him highly: "Louis Mhlanga should be regarded as a national treasure. He is a musician of the highest order. I have been performing with him for more than a decade and every time it feels like one is experiencing a miracle."

The IAML Congress brings together a diverse group of specialists including music and audio-visual librarians, music archivists and documentation specialists, musicians and musicologists, as well as orchestra, opera, and chorus librarians, music publishers, and suppliers from around the world. The congress aims to promote the work of music libraries, archives, and documentation centres in preserving and sharing musical culture and heritage. This year's programme will emphasise African content, celebrating the continent's rich musical traditions.

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*Currency in South African Rands (ZAR)