Keenan Ahrends at Sanctuary Mandela

Keenan Ahrends

Keenan Ahrends – Guitar
Romy Brauteseth – Double Bass
Sphelelo Mazibuko – Drums

Keenan Ahrends is a jazz guitarist and composer from Johannesburg, South Africa. He began playing at fifteen and earned his jazz performance degree from the University of Cape Town and the Norwegian Academy of Music in 2009, followed by an honours degree from the University of Witwatersrand in 2019, where he researched Errol Dyers. Ahrends has toured extensively in South Africa and internationally, performing with artists like Louis Moholo and Thandi Ntuli at notable venues and festivals. His acclaimed debut album, Narrative (2017), was followed by Perseverance: Live at the Bird’s Eye in 2022. Ahrends is also known for his work with various artists and larger ensembles, playing a key role in the southern African jazz scene.