MELVIS SANTA MASTERCLASSES & PANEL DISCUSSION - TAJE Artist-in-Residence Programme 2026

The TransAtlantic Jazz Exchange (TAJE) proudly presents a series of masterclasses and scholarly dialogues with internationally acclaimed Afro-Cuban vocalist, composer, pianist, and percussionist Melvis Santa, as part of her 2026 Artist-in-Residence programme in South Africa.

Born and raised in Havana and now based in New York, Melvis Santa is widely respected for her work bridging Afro-Cuban traditions, jazz improvisation, voice, rhythm, and spirituality. She has performed and taught internationally and is currently touring with Kenny Garrett’s Sounds From The Ancestors, becoming the first vocalist to officially join his touring band. Her work centres artistic excellence, cultural memory, and music as a space for healing and dialogue.

THURSDAY 12 FEBRUARY 2026

Cuban Rhythm & Vocal Composition

10:00–12:00 – Masterclass 1

Melvis Santa’s Music & Vocal Technique

An in-depth exploration of Melvis Santa’s compositional approach, vocal technique, and Afro-Cuban rhythmic foundations.

13:00–15:00 – Masterclass 2

(Open to singers, educators, and musicians)

A practical session focusing on voice, rhythm, interpretation, and ensemble listening across Afro-diasporic traditions.

FRIDAY 13 FEBRUARY 2026

15:00–17:00 – ‘She Says’ Project: Panel & Masterclass

Panel Title: “What the Diaspora Sings: Women in Jazz – Cuba & South Africa”

This women-led dialogue brings together leading artists and scholars to reflect on women’s authorship, performance as research, and Afro-diasporic jazz narratives.

Panelists:

• Gabi Motuba

• Siya Makuzeni

• Phuti Sepuru

• Chantal Willie-Petersen

• Melvis Santa

Moderator: Brenda Sisane

The session combines scholarly discussion with musical demonstration, offering participants insight into contemporary jazz practice, cultural exchange, and knowledge transmission through performance.

WHO SHOULD ATTEND

• University students

• Music educators & researchers

• Jazz musicians & vocalists

• Cultural practitioners

• Anyone interested in Afro-diasporic music and performance studies

Free registration