Guinness Cork Jazz Festival 2017
Jazzin’ it up in the Rebel County
Every October bank holiday weekend for the past 40 years, the streets of Cork have come alive as top Jazz musicians from all over the world descend on one of the greatest of all Jazz Festivals. And 2017 promises to feature the best programme yet for the Guinness Cork Jazz Festival. There is music in every corner from early in the morning until late at night. Venues big and small will ensure that everyone will be able to embrace their inner jazz aficionado. As well as the many headline events there is also a dedicated fringe festival, music trail and many free open-air concerts to enjoy. We have many of the events listed on www.inspireme.ie. Or for the full program why not check out www.guinnessjazzfestival.com. Below are just some of our highlights from the weekend. Hopefully it will inspire you to check out this most fantastic of festivals.
Renowned Jazz Musicians
Most of the headline acts are based in the Imperial and Metropole Hotels, the Opera House and the Everyman Palace. The Festival will be opened in style with a superb double bill at the Everyman. First up is the fabulous Sarah McKenzie, the Australian jazz pianist and vocalist who will be sure to dazzle. This is followed by Gary Crosby, the renowned jazz double bassist and his All-Star Nu Troop Sextet have come from London to Cork. Or on Sunday afternoon at the same venue, another superb double bill sees Ronnie Scott’s All Stars present their ‘Soho Songbook’, followed by Rhode Island’s own Scott Hamilton and the Champion Fulton Trio.
Music for the Masses
Bringing jazz to the masses, on Sat at 1pm the Jazz Parade starts its musical tour from Grand Parade. Bring the whole family, wrap up warm and line the streets to see the world’s finest Jazz bands wind a route along the city streets. Afterwards head to Daunts Square where the Blarney Concert Band will continue to entertain with a free open air concert.
Night Owls Rejoice
For the night owls in the audience, why not head to the Cork Opera House on Sat at 11.45pm for a midnight concert with the Booka Brass Band. Guaranteed to keep you dancing all night long, you are in for a huge treat as one of Ireland’s greatest live acts takes to the stage. Or for something a bit more spiritual, there is a Jazz Gospel Service on Sunday morning 29th in the iconic St Anne’s Church in Shandon. Featuring the St. John’s Gospel Choir and the New York Brass band, this is one event that is sure to raise the spirits. The event is free but tickets are required as space is limited. Or for another unique venue the historical Cork City Gaol is delighted to welcome back The Art Crimes Band for their Jazz in the Gaol event on Sunday afternoon.
Suburban Soul
Maybe you fancy might getting away from the hustle and bustle of the city? Why not head further afield at some point over the weekend to the suburbs. The newly refurbished Barry’s of Douglas play host to everyone’ favourite chat show band, the Camembert Quartet. On Sat 28th and Sun 29th they will delight fans new and old with their vast musical repertoire.
Sounds by the Sea
Or further afield, in the beautiful coastal town of Kinsale, the Billy Crosbie Duo with special guests will be entertaining the masses in their usual perch in the Trident Hotel. 30 years on, these talented musicians continue to inspire new generations of jazz lovers. Legendary Joe Mac will be on the drums beating out the rhythm. It will not only be saints who will be marching on this weekend.
More that Music
Do you need a break from all the music yet? Remember that in the City Library, there is a wide range of lectures and workshops over the festival. On Wed 25th at 11 am, Mo O’Connor from Cork and Dan Shout from South Africa will jointly present ‘South African Jazz Tunes, Old & New’. This is a very special musical programme where you can delight in the unique sounds of South African Jazz and learn about the place it played in the country’s history.
These are just a few of the many events that will be taking place over the October Bank Holiday in Cork. Don’t forget to check www.inspireme.ie regularly to find lots of inspiration for things to do in your own locality. And sign up here to receive regular updates on what’s on in your area.
Finally, all information correct at time of publishing. You should always check with the event organiser before you travel.
