South Africa has often been described as having the greatest natural vocal talent in the world, so it’s about time we paid more attention to their development! Thus, this year we add a third national ensemble – the National Youth Jazz Vocal Quintet – with young vocalists selected from around the country. Leading this inaugural ensemble is acclaimed vocalist and pianist, Amanda Tiffin, Associate Professor and Head of Jazz Studies at UCT, where she also runs the Jazz Singing Department. She holds a Masters Degree in Jazz Composition and Vocal Performance and has made her name in South Africa and abroad as a bandleader, composer, performer, academic and educator. A versatile vocalist and pianist, she is comfortable in any number of styles and has released multiple albums under her own name. As a passionate and respected educator, she regularly conducts workshops and master classes throughout South Africa and abroad.