JazzYYC Summer Festival
World-class jazz returns to the spotlight at this annual fest
Start your summer on a high note with a diverse blend of world-class jazz as the annual JazzYYC Summer Festival takes over Calgary. From headliners Benny Green and the Brubeck Brothers to Canadian jazz legends the Shuffle Demons, you can even check out late night jams, free public workshops, and the signature JazzWalk.
Hosted by Calgary’s jazz collaborative in partnership with TD Canada Trust, be sure to hit up workshops by jazz experts at the Drop-In Zone in the National Music Centre. With topics from the origins and future of jazz, to improvisation and a drum feature, these free talks bring you up close and personal with some of the artists in the festival.
With plenty to enjoy, there’s something for everyone this week. Here’s what we’re checking out at this year’s festival:
Shuffle Demons
June 12, 2019, 7:00 – 9:00pm
Ironwood Stage & Grill (1229 9th Ave. SE)
$25 – $35
A band that captured the imagination of a generation with their antics and no holds barred playing, the Shuffle Demons is a high-energy Canadian band that blends virtuosic jazz and funk with eye-catching costumes and over-the-top stage presence. Trust us and don’t miss this incredible show.
jazzyyc.com
Benny Green Trio
June 14, 2019, 8:00 – 10:00pm
Studio Bell, home of the National Music Centre (850 4th St. SE)
$39 – $49
One of the leading jazz pianists of his generation, this is your chance to see this hard-swinging, hard-bop performer. Benny Green is a highly regarded bandleader whose efforts to expand the classical jazz canon have placed him not only among the best interpreters, but also among the vanguard of musicians keeping jazz’s evolution going.
jazzyyc.com
Brubeck Brothers Quartet
June 15, 2019, 8:00 – 10:00pm
Studio Bell, home of the National Music Centre (850 4th St. SE)
$39 – $49
Sixty years after the release of Dave Brubeck’s seminal record, Time Out, Chris and Dan Brubeck celebrate the anniversary of this release and their father’s upcoming centenary. Add in guitarist Mike DeMicco and pianist Chuck Lamb to round out the quartet and this dynamic show is sure to be a festival favourite.
jazzyyc.com
Jazzwalk
June 16, 2019, 12:00 – 6:00pm
Along Music Mile (9th Ave. SE)
Free admission
Celebrate the JazzYYC Summer Festival with this free, family-friendly day of fantastic music. With multiple shows in multiple venues throughout Inglewood and the Music Mile, there’s a little something for everyone, from the jazz aficionado to the newest listener. You can even go on a guided journey with Art Proctor.
jazzyyc.com
The JazzYYC Summer Festival runs June 12 to 16, 2019. Head to jazzyyc.com to see the full schedule.