The University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) Centre for Jazz and Popular Music kicks of its programme for the new decade with a performance by Nick Pitman on Wednesday 05 February 2020.  Hailing from the sun-washed shores of Durban, Nick is a guitarist, producer, and music teacher with over 10 years of experience as a recognized musician within the city’s vibrant performance scene.

He has earned a stellar reputation among local artists and the wider South African music community, making headway as a regular session musician for some of the country’s greatest talents.  Pitman continues to develop his diverse repertoire as he features in an array of duos, trios, quartets, and other bands over and above his solo career.

Nick’s recent prominent performances include sold out shows at the Rockwood Theatre, Durban alongside Richard Shelton as Frank Sinatra in Sinatra and Me and a two-month Megastars of Pop production, as well as the Mama Afrika Tribute led by Thulile Zama at the Hilton Arts Festival.  Pitman also features as lead guitarist for corporate function cover band Calamity Jam, a highly sought-after rock outfit for premier events, and guitarist for the KZN All Stars Big Band led by Duncan Wooldridge.

Having graduated in 2018 Summa Cum Laude, he holds a B Mus majoring in Composition and Arranging from UKZN.  Over and above these recognitions, he was selected for the Standard Bank National Youth Jazz Band in 2016 and 2017, visited Cape Town where he performed original music featuring guest appearances from artists in the area, and played at the Oslo Jazz Festival in Norway in 2016.

In October 2019, Pitman released his single “Rollercoaster” featuring Nosihe Zulu and Freeman Gumede and is available on all digital platforms.  He aims to record his debut album this year, which will consist of his jazz compositions and arrangements.  Nick’s quartet will be made up of himself on guitar, Thabo Sikhakhane on trumpet, Freeman Gumede on bass, David Langley on piano and Riley Giandhari on drums.  This show will form part of the preparations for his album recording.

The Centre for Jazz and Popular Music is located on Level 2, Shepstone Building at UKZN Howard College Campus.  Cover charge is R90 for general admission, R60 for pensioners and only R30 for students carrying their student cards.  Doors will open at 17h30 and the concert starts at 18h00.