Namibian music lovers are in for a treat this October as the Crazy Ties Big Band, a renowned 20-piece brass band from Germany, makes its way to the country. 

The band, known for its energetic performances and diverse repertoire, will be touring various cities, sharing their passion for swing, soul, funk, Latin, and rock music.

The Crazy Ties Big Band’s visit was made possible through the support of the Goethe Institut and the German embassy.

The band’s musical director, Winfried Jupt, visited Namibia earlier this year to lay the groundwork for the tour and to explore opportunities for musical collaborations with local musicians.

The Crazy Ties will conduct workshops at the Swakopmund Arts Association, the Arts Performance Centre in Tsumeb, and the College of the Arts in Windhoek. These workshops will provide valuable training and mentorship to Namibian musicians of all ages. Additionally, the band will donate instruments to local musicians to support their artistic endeavours.

“Their jazzy repertoire includes Duke Ellington’s evergreen `It Don´t Mean a Thing´, Ray Charles` ‘Hallelujah, I Love Her So ´. And they will continue to entertain with soul (Ronny Williams` `Son of a Preacher Man´, Aretha Franklin`s `Respect`), Rhythm & Blues (`Feeling Good’). 

The Crazy Ties comprise, inter alia, six saxophonists, four trombonists, five trumpet players, a rhythm section, and different vocalists,” said Jupt.

The band had a German unity celebration at the German ambassador’s residence yesterday, where they featured as an entertainment highlight.

“From there we will proceed to Swakopmund for their workshop and concert on Saturday at the Swakopmund NPS School. On the road to Etosha Park, the Crazy Ties will strut their stuff` at the Oktoberfest at Otavi on 11 and the Tsumeb APC on 12 October respectively,” he said.  

He added that they will perform in Windhoek on 16 October at the Garden.

-pmukokobi@nepc.com.na