Stage set for Swansea International Jazz Festival

Swansea Council is behind the festival, which is due to take place from June 15-19, featuring world-class artists and diverse jazz styles.

The festival will open with a performance by Hoop, a highly acclaimed seven-piece band that blends funk, rock and jazz.

Other highlights of the festival are set to include performances by the Laurence Cottle All-Star Big Band, Daniel John Martin’s Gypsy Jazz Quartet, The Coalminers, Iain MacKenzie and HHH with Mo Pleasure.

Council cabinet member for investment, regeneration and tourism, Cllr Robert Francis-Davies, said: “We’re delighted to be presenting Swansea International Jazz Festival, offering an exceptional programme that showcases the diversity and innovation within the jazz genre.

“This year’s festival promises to be an exceptional celebration of talent, creativity and the power of jazz to inspire and unite people from all walks of life. We invite everyone to join us in Swansea for this incredible musical journey.”

The full line-up of artists in the festival’s concert series

Hoop – a world-class seven-piece band that blends funk, rock, and jazz. They have been described as “one of the most exciting live bands in the UK”. Hoop will be performing on Thursday, June 15, 8pm, at The Garage, Uplands.

Laurence Cottle All Star Big Band – Laurence Cottle is one of the UK’s leading jazz musicians and musical arrangers. His All-Star Big Band features some of the finest jazz and session musicians in the country. The band explores the evolution of the big band over the years, playing some of the great tunes from the early days of big band through to Buddy Rich, Bob Brookmeyer, Jaco Pastorius and some of Laurence’s own compositions. They will be performing on Friday, June 16, 8pm, at the Dylan Thomas Theatre, Maritime Quarter.

Daniel John Martin’s Gypsy Jazz Quartet – Paris-based Daniel John Martin is one of Europe’s leading gypsy jazz guitarists. His quartet features some of the finest gypsy jazz musicians in the country. You can hear them play at the Dylan Thomas Theatre on Saturday, June 17, 2.30pm.

The Coalminers – a seven-piece band that combines traditional jazz with elements of folk and blues. They’ve been praised for their high energy and infectious enthusiasm. The play songs ranging from Professor Longhair to Allen Toussaint, Mardi Gras parade anthems to Fats Domino rock’n’roll classics and the swampy funk of The Meters and Dr John. The Coalminers take to the stage at the Dylan Thomas Theatre on Saturday, June 17, 8pm.

Iain MacKenzie – a Scottish jazz singer and songwriter. He has been praised for his powerful voice” and intelligent lyrics. Iain is resident singer at London’s Savoy Hotel and in Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Orchestra. He will be singing on Sunday, June 18, 2.30pm, at the Dylan Thomas Theatre.

HHH and Mo Pleasure create a powerful and energetic sound aimed at getting the audience dancing. Mo is musical director for Bette Midler, having previously performed the role for Earth, Wind & Fire. The setlist will feature a mix of classic jazz standards and original compositions, performed with passion and skill. You can hear them play the music of Chaka Khan, Earth Wind & Fire, Average White Band and others on Sunday, June 18, 8pm, at the Dylan Thomas Theatre.

In addition to the main concert series, the festival will feature other events, including:

Swansea Music’s Jazz Workshop – an afternoon workshop for young musicians (Grade 5), courtesy of Swansea Music and National Music Service of Wales. The workshop, on Saturday, June 17, 1.30pm, at the National Waterfront Museum, will be led by Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama’s Big Band. It will cover a range of topics, including improvisation and ensemble playing.

Copper Jack Jazz Cruise – a 90-minute excursion on the River Tawe with live jazz music from leading local musicians.

Saturday, June 17, 2.30pm: Louis & Ella Duo
Sunday, June 18, 2.30pm: Hoss & Norcross Trio

BuzzAlong Bonanza – backed by a fantastic swashbuckling big band, Swansea year three pupils will have the chance to celebrate their achievements and make music on Monday, June 19.

There will also be around 30 free gigs during the weekend, featuring local talent alongside artists from further afield playing in venues such as The Swigg, The Pump House, Queen’s Hotel, Riverhouse, Morgan’s Hotel and the Labour Club.

The festival’s artistic advisor and renowned Swansea jazz talent, Dave Cottle, who will himself be taking to the stage, said: “We have musicians and bands coming to Swansea from the USA and Europe, along with many of the best jazz ensembles.

“The ticketed shows offer a wide variety of styles and something for everyone, and there’s plenty of great talent to enjoy with the free fringe events spread all over the Maritime Quarter.

“Swansea International Jazz Festival really is a great event for jazz lovers of all ages. So, come along and enjoy the music!”

Tickets are on sale at enjoyswanseabay.com