UKZN guitar alumni to honour Demi Fernandez in concert

Legendary flamenco guitarist and educator, Demi Fernandez, will be honoured at the University of KwaZulu-Natal's (UKZN) Centre for Jazz and Popular Music on Friday May 30.

A line-up of UKZN guitar alumni will gather to pay tribute to Fernandez.

Born in Brazil to Spanish parents, he has long been a bridge between worlds, cultures, tradition and innovation. Having performed extensively in the flamenco tablaos of Spain, Fernandez brought with him not just skill, but soul. He is the long-standing guitarist for the Linda Vargas Flamenco Dance Company, lecturer and senior music staff at UKZN. 

As Head of the Centre for Jazz and Popular Music, Neil Gonsalves said Fernandez has shaped the musical DNA of countless students.

“Through his teachings in jazz guitar, arranging, harmony, and ensemble work he has empowered his students with the love of music. It is these students, now seasoned artists in their own right, who are returning to the stage, not just to perform, but to pay tribute, as Fernandez announced his retirement,” said Gonsalves.

Nick Pitman, known for his genre-defying compositions and his recent album Juicebox, is fresh off a whirlwind tour with musical theatre giants and jazz icons alike. His work blends jazz, funk, rock, and Afrobeat into a sonic kaleidoscope that still feels grounded in the streets of Durban.

Solomon Willy, born in Nigeria and raised musically under Fernandez’s tutelage, brings a lush blend of Afro-beat, jazz, and African soul to his performances. His music has crossed oceans, from Australia to Durban’s biggest festivals.

Joshua Swanson’s journey began at UKZN too. Now an educator and full-time performer with the acclaimed band The Kickstands, Swanson’s jazz stylings and educational commitment echo Fernandez’s own legacy of teaching.

From Mozambique, Milton Chissano adds his unique musical heritage. With a foundation in classical guitar and a career that has spanned Afro-Cuban grooves, Bollywood motifs, and African folk songs, Chissano’s artistry is both broad and deeply rooted. His performances, including his current residency at King Shaka International Airport, speak of migration, memory, and homecoming.

Also taking the stage is Seb Goldswain, known for his electrifying fingerstyle technique and genre-blending compositions that fuse blues, rock, and jazz, said Gonsalves.

“Together, this line-up presents some of the important torchbearers, each carrying a piece of Demi Fernandez’s enduring impact.” said Mr Gonsalves.

Doors open at 6pm. Tickets cost R120, or R90 for pensioners and R60 for students.