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Currently, in Canada, Ivan Mazuze, a Norway-based composer, award-winning saxophonist and world jazz artist of Mozambique origin, is preparing for the Cape Town International Jazz Festival.

His album titled Penuka explores Arab and Indian cultures and their influences on traditional African music.

The album was celebrated with a concert at the renowned Cosmopolite Scene in Oslo, Norway, on October 11, 2024.

As he continues to achieve milestones in his career, this year, he returns to a much-evolved Cape Town International Jazz Festival, having previously performed at the 2011 edition.

Mazuze initiated his studies in music in 1987 at the National Music School in his home country, Mozambique.

Piano was his first instrument and after seven years of classical piano training, he joined the woodwind section with a jazz study approach and a focus on improvisation. He continued his studies at the University of Cape Town, South Africa, in the Department of Jazz and Musicology.

“Through Penuka, I aim to offer a fresh perspective on how these influences have shaped African music, blending traditional rhythms with modern jazz improvisation. This album is a celebration of the enduring cultural connections between Africa, the Arab world, and India,” Ivan adds.

The album itself consists of 10 songs, which include Bongile, Penuka, Mamidje, M & S, Belonging, Ayaan, Adufo, Kanawa, Nhaka and Yangulanu. During his performance at the festival, Mazuze will give an official presentation of his latest body of work.

1e:T6a6,Currently, in Canada, Ivan Mazuze, a Norway-based composer, award-winning saxophonist and

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After 13 years, Ivan Mazuze strikes a chord of cultural harmony at the Cape Town International Jazz Festival