If you're looking for sophisticated, gentle jazz, you've come to the right place. Mike Laatz plays soprano, alto and tenor saxophones, and he works with the cream of Cape Town's musicians; most often with Eddie Kirkwood, who plays nice and gentle "tinkly" piano. Mike and Eddie are two of the very few musicians who specialise in creating ambience, rather than "in-your-face" entertainment. Their music is never too loud or intrusive, but always mellow and relaxing.

If budget is a concern, Mike also works solo, playing with top-quality backtracks using recordings of live musicians.

Mike currently plays at several Cape Town venues every week, in addition to weddings, garden parties, house parties and corporate functions. If you need to book him and/or one of his bands for a function, it will be necessary to plan well ahead. He can be contacted at
021 671 8185/082 5328506,
or by e-mail (click here)

If you need something a bit more vibey, Mike plays with the B# ensemble...a 5-piece outfit that plays a mix of jazz and old rock numbers like Mustang Sally, Black Magic Woman etc. You can listen to the B# Ensemble at www.bsharp.altpro.net

Mike also plays regularly with the Casablanca band, a five-piece jazz outfit, and the Connoly Big Band.

Jazz newsletter

If you'd like to subscribe to my weekly Jazz News, send an email to (capejazzgigs@gmail.com)

with "subscribe" as the subject.

Use the same email address to let me know of any jazz happenings that should be included.

To go directly to my gig guide, click on the link to the right.

Gershwin CD

I've finished recording my CD of Gershwin tunes; you can have a listen at www.gershwin.altpro.net

You can order directly from me:email me at mikelaatz@telkomsa.net


or buy at Upbeat in Seapoint.