Hilton Schilder Trio – Live in Cape Town

A pioneering composer, pianist, and multi-instrumentalist, Hilton Schilder is regarded as a living legend of South African jazz. His work sits at the intersection of Cape jazz, goema, indigenous classical music, and free improvisation, drawing deeply on history while continually evolving. Hilton has a remarkable catalogue of 46 albums. His latest release, Crooks & Nannies, is a powerful statement of reflection, resilience, and creative freedom.

Hilton is joined by his exceptional trio:

Hilton Schilder – piano, percussion & electronics
A master storyteller through sound, Hilton’s performances move effortlessly between lyrical piano passages, percussive intensity, and experimental textures. His music is spiritual, political, playful, and deeply rooted in African memory.

Clayton Norman Pretorius – bass
A dynamic and sensitive bassist, Clayton anchors the trio with a deep rhythmic grounding while contributing melodic counterpoints. His playing bridges tradition and modernity, providing both drive and subtlety to the ensemble.

Kurt Bowers – drums
An inventive and responsive drummer, Kurt brings fluidity, energy, and conversation to the music. His approach to rhythm allows the trio to move freely between groove, abstraction, and spontaneous interaction.

Together, the Hilton Schilder Trio delivers a powerful live experience — intimate yet expansive, grounded in Cape jazz and goema while pushing boldly into new sonic territory.

For lovers of jazz, indigenous music, improvisation, and original South African sound, this is a night not to be missed.