The City of Derry Jazz and Big Band Festival is the biggest jazz festival on the island of Ireland, attracting over 70,000 people to enjoy the packed programme of events running over five days (27 April –1 May).
This year’s festival will feature hundreds of top artists from around the world as well as homegrown talent, who will play across the city in over 65 venues.
Among the popular acts returning to the festival are Mission Impossible, Luke Thomas & The Swing Cats, The Jiveoholics, and the Red Stripe Band.
Three jazz hubs in the city – Bennigan’s Bar, The Playhouse and The Great Hall, Magee – will host renowned artists such as Phil Robson, Hannes Riepler, Meilana Gillard, Paul McIntyre, Michael Barkley and Gene Calderazzo.
Lots of the performances will be alfresco, enlivening the streets of the city with rhythm and melody.
Outdoor highlights include a talent showcase in the historic Guildhall Square, live music in the Craft Village and fabulous street performances from festival regulars the Jaydee, Boom Strutt, and Hyde Park and Back Chat brass bands.