Bokani Dyer Trio

Bokani Dyer is an acclaimed pianist, composer, and bandleader who has stood as one of the most formidable and creative talents in South Africa. In the exploration of the musical tradition, and the music’s present role in culture and society, he has been a significant force of his generation diving deeply into the complex question of identity in South Africa. An award-winning composer, hailed as the future of South African jazz when he won the prestigious Standard Bank Young Artist of the Year right at the outset of his career in 2011, Dyer is garnering accolades worldwide. His trio album, Neo Native, won the SAMA award for best jazz album in 2019. That year, he was also invited to perform at London’s legendary Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Club as part of the Piano Trio Festival.

In his musical endeavors, Dyer finds new and innovative means to embrace traditions as examples to guide and build a more equitable and empathetic future. His unique piano-playing style expresses that notion, while in his musical concepts he embraces the contemporary musical world in a highly creative way. His most recent recorded offering is Radio Sechaba, in which he merges many his musical influences, and showcases his exploration of vocal and lyrical expression.

On this tour, he is bringing his Bokani Dyer Trio to American audiences. Expect the unexpected, infectious rhythms, melodic explorations of varyingly rich African traditions, groove, and innovative piano playing.

(Ticket Includes 5% City of Santa Cruz Admission Tax)