By: Nokwazi Qumbisa

A relaxed, care free day with the distinct scent of wine and coffee ever-so-lightly percolating through the crisp afternoon air. Now that’s a holiday!

The Alliance Française de Durban recently hosted a jazz-inspired picnic, with Kianja Harvey, international artist, as their guest of honour.

The amazing 15year old from London has been living in Durban for two and half years. She is currently a student at  Eden College, where she received a music scholarship. The young musician has definitely been making a name for herself, having collaborated with numerous artist around Durban. She also writes her own music and says music is part of who she is.

“I’m very passionate about music and have been around music from a very young age. I guess the fact that my parents are also part of the arts has impacted me a lot.”

Her performance was well received at the Alliance de Française where she sang songs that had the crowd eating out of the palm of her hand. The highlights were her exquisite cover of Amy Winehouse’s song “Valerie” and a beautiful rendition of the 1945 classic song “autumn leaves/ les feuilles mortes” by Yves Montand and Irene Joachim, which showed off her range.

“Her performance was refreshingly pleasant. She’s a great singer and the jazzy scene here makes it a great way to spend your Saturday,” said Michaela Naicker, an attendee of the Jazz picnic at the Alliance de Franciase.

The Lovely Kianja singing on of her songs,which had the crowd eating from her hand. Picture by Nokwazi Qumbisa

In Africa more French is spoken than in Europe. With Durban definitely being seen as a cultural melting pot, the whole scene at the Alliance de Franciase is one not to be missed.

They also offer classes in French, Portuguese and IsiZulu, and usually host events which promise to have you coming back for more, with a restaurant which offers great meals and coffee or wine on request.