Based: Cape Town
Carla Stokes is a highly versatile South African saxophonist, session musician, bandleader, music producer and educator based in Cape Town. She has built a strong reputation on the local jazz and events scene for her soulful saxophone performances, dynamic live energy and wide stylistic range.
Carla’s musical journey began at the age of eight when she started formal training in classical clarinet and piano, later discovering her passion for tenor saxophone during high school. She continued her studies at the University of Cape Town’s South African College of Music, where she completed a Bachelor of Music in Jazz Performance in 2018 and a Postgraduate Certificate in Education in Music in 2019.
Since the age of 15, Carla has performed professionally across South Africa in a variety of musical settings, including big bands, combo jazz groups, rock and pop ensembles, and as a solo artist. She has played with groups such as The UCT Big Band, Lady Day Big Band, The Mike Campbell Big Band, Los Tacos and Crimson House, showcasing her adaptability and deep musicality.
Carla is also an active composer and producer, having released original music that blends jazz saxophone with contemporary electronic influences — including singles like Modern Love, Sunday Afternoon and Comes in Waves. Her work is available on all major streaming platforms.
As a performer, Carla has appeared at major events and festivals, including the Cape Town International Jazz Festival and the Standard Bank National Jazz Festival, and has delivered high‑impact performances at prestigious venues such as The Zeitz Mocaa Museum, The Twelve Apostles Hotel and other top Cape Town locations.
In addition to her musical career, Carla is a dedicated educator and has taught music in schools around Cape Town while managing her own live performance projects. Her work as a professional musician spans solo saxophone sets, DJ + sax fusion shows, jazz ensembles, and larger band formats — making her a sought‑after act for weddings, corporate functions, private events and festivals.
Whether commanding the stage with her tenor sax or bringing innovative soundscapes to life as a producer and bandleader, Carla Stokes continues to captivate audiences with her energetic performances, musical depth and creative versatility.
