Tourism, Accommodation and Historical Attractions in Durban, South Africa

Durban's Music

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The original African instruments of drums and wooden xylophones have been augmented by those from other cultures such as those from India and Europe.

Similarly, the wonderful choral styles of Africa have been assimilated by others - not to say that the traditional cadences have been ignored, as they are alive and well in most parts of the province.

Contemporary music is very strong in Durban with many outlets for township music, pop, disco, folk, jazz, gospel, bhangra and trance.

Classical fans are well catered for with a number of choral societies and regular performances by the Natal Philharmonic, often with invited soloists and conductors.

As usual, the local press offers the best reflection of local musical trends.

Jazz

Bean Bag Bohemia

Wander up to the upper level on Sunday evenings for some of the choicest jazz - from traditional to ambient. You will be expected to partake of a meal.

18 Windermere Road, Greyville.

Music on the Deck

What a lovely setting to listen to jazz! Sit on the deck, overlooking the small craft harbour at the BAT Centre. Listen to some of the best township jazz in the city.

45 Maritime Place, Small Craft Harbour.

Jubes

High on the hill over Durban at the University of Natal, listen to saxophonist Mfana Mlabo. On Friday, there is a band, while its jam time on Saturday.

Jubilee Hall, University of Natal.

The NU Jazz Centre

For a midweek change, listen to jazz from both international artists and local groups.

75th Anniversary Road, Westville (closed during vacations)

The Centre for Jazz and Popular Music

There are smooth jazz distractions every Wednesday evening at 17.30. Cover is R5.

The University of Natal, King George V Ave, Berea

The Rainbow Restaurant

One of the oldest afro jazz spots. The action takes place between 13.330 and 16.30 on Sundays but phone before! Good, plain food and convivial company.

Shop 6, Stanefield Rd., Pinetown.

Smelly's Bar

If you like old time standards, particularly swing, traditional jazz and blues, then Sunday afternoons are your time. Warm and friendly atmosphere.

Mojazz

Come and listen to some excellent music on the second floor of the Plaza Hotel on Friday and Saturday nights.

Le Plaza Hotel

Folk

Durban Folk Club

The Club was founded with the intention not only of providing a venue for established musicians but also to provide an environment that would encourage up and coming artists.

The first half of the usual Monday evening is devoted to aspiring musicians while the latter half is devoted to a featured artist.

The Tusk Inn, 103 Sarnia Rd. Rossburgh

Classical

The NBS Sunset Proms

Bring a blanket, a bottle of wine and a picnic basket and enjoy a variety of classical music at the Village Green on selected Sunday evenings at 17.30.

Village Green, Battery Beach Road, North Beach

The Friends of Music

This group of afficionados was formed to encourage local talented musicians by giving them the opportunity to perform in public.

The music is not confined to classical music but may also well include jazz. The Friends performs around 13 recitals a year, mainly at the Jewish Club and holds lectures before the weekly NPO concert.

Durban Jewish Club, Old Fort Road.

Baroque 2000

A 22 strong orchestra specializing in lush, heavy, romantic music.

Musgrave Methodist Church, Berea 235539

Music at the Lake

The Natal Philharmonic holds concerts at the beautiful Botanic Gardens on various Sunday evenings throughout the year. Come and bring a picnic and enjoy the wonderful music and the marvellous ambience.

Botanic Gardens, Botanic Gardens Rd. 211 303 Cover R12

The University of Natal Music Department

There are free lunchtime concerts in term time on Mondays and students give recitals on Wednesdays and the public are invited to the end of year examinations.

The University of kwaZuluNatal Music Department

There are both Western and Indian classical performances as well as crossover into African music and jazz. Performers in the department include the Choir and Vocal Ensemble, the Mosaic Group and the Melvin Peters Jazz Trio. There are free lunchtime concerts and evening recitals.

The Durban Mens Choir

The choir performs a variety of music, both at home and abroad.

The Durban Boys Choir

A well established choir that performs around the city.

The Durban Symphonic Choir

Performs both symphonic choral works and other types of choral music.

The Durban Chamber Choir

Performs mostly sacred works

The McLean Singers

Sings mainly Baroque works and encourages young soloists.

The Oriana Choir

One of Durban's best known choirs.