The Cape Town Big Band Jazz Festival was founded in 1999 by the late Dennis Barr, and was set up to provide a platform for up-and-coming musicians and further develop their talents. The festival forms part of a larger community outreach programme which supports big band jazz education for school and university students.

The proceeds of the festival go to offering scholarships and sponsorships for students and teachers. Musical instruments are donated to schools such as Athlone Music Academy, York Road Primary School and Eluxolweni Primary School.