The University of Natal’s Centre for Jazz will host a free guitar and banjo concert on January 29 at 19h00. This has been sponsored by the United States Information Services and provides a rare opportunity to see world class US musicians Steve Hancoff and Bud Wachter in a great programme of music

Both Bud Wachter and Steve Hancoff are recognised as virtuosos and innovators by their peers and critics world-wide.

New York Times wrote "Bud Watcher has elevated America's premier folk instrument, the banjo to the concert stage with unprecedented virtuosity and an amazing repertoire that ranges from jazz to pop to the classics.

Washington Post wrote: In the hands of steel-string guitar virtuoso Steve Hancoff, the guitar is more orchestra than instrument. Steve Hancoff proves there is no limit to what can be done with an acoustic guitar in the hands of a master".

The duo has created an inimitable and humorous program rich with the music and stories of the greatest American musical legends. They play works from composers like Stephen Foster, J P Sousa, Scott Joplin, Jelly-Roll Morton, Irving Berlin, George Gershwin, Duke Ellington as well as singing the folk songs that describe the life and times of the people of the United States. And all this with only one banjo and one guitar.

On tour they also do TV, radio and newspaper interviews, as well as teaching master classes all over the world.

All are welcome. A cash bar is available. The Centre for Jazz is situated at L2 Shepstone on the university campus. For details or directions phone Glynis on 031 260-3385.