By Yorg
As summer arrives, so does the excitement of music festival season, and Ottawa kicks off their festival season with the prestigious 42nd annual Ottawa Jazz Festival. Celebrating from June 21st to June 30th, this year’s festival promises a spectacular lineup focusing on the influence of women in music alongside Grammy Award-winning artists, both past and present.
Event Details and Locations
The festival continues its tradition of presenting live concerts at familiar venues: Marion Dewar Plaza, National Arts Centre (NAC), and Confederation Park. Known for its inclusive international appeal, the Ottawa Jazz Festival features musicians from across the globe, offering a diverse mix of paid and free concerts that welcome music lovers of all ages.
With nearly 1000 international musicians gracing the stages until June 30th, organizers expect a turnout of well-over 250,000 music fans. Such a impressive event requires the dedication of hundreds of volunteers to ensure its success.
Anticipated Highlights at this year’s 2024 Ottawa Jazz Festival:
Friday, June 21st
Kick off your Ottawa Jazz Festival experience with Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue, headlining the Main Stage. Trombone Shorty, a dynamic performer and Grammy nominee, he brings his signature blend of jazz, funk, and soul to electrify the audience. His recent accolades include nominations for his work with New Breed Brass Band and notable contributions to albums like John Batiste’s “We Are”.
At the National Arts Centre’s Fourth Stage, catch pianist Geoffrey Keezer alongside vocalist Gillian Margot. Keezer, a Grammy-winning artist known for his captivating compositions, promises an intimate yet powerful performance reflecting his diverse musical journey.
In the NAC Azrieli Studio, Darcy James Argue’s Secret Society will mesmerize with their big band sound. Recently nominated for a Grammy in the Best Large Jazz Ensemble Album category, their album “Dynamic Maximum Tension” showcases their innovative approach to contemporary jazz.
Saturday, June 22nd
Don’t miss Parliament Funkadelic featuring George Clinton on the Main Stage, delivering legendary funk vibes. Honored with a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award, George Clinton and his band promise an unforgettable evening of funk, soul, and groove.
Sunday, June 23rd
Headlining the Main Stage is the renowned Preservation Hall Jazz Band, celebrated for their traditional New Orleans jazz sound. With a Grammy history dating back to their collaboration on The Blind Boys of Alabama’s Grammy-winning album, they continue to captivate audiences with their timeless melodies.
Tuesday, June 25th
Experience Mats Gustafson – The End – at 9pm at NAC, where experimental music meets diverse influences ranging from free jazz to Scandinavian folk. This unique performance promises to challenge and expand your musical horizons.
Kathleen Edwards, an Ottawa, Ontario native, released her highly praised debut album “Failer” in her early 20s. Known for its warm, woozy sound, the album earned a Juno nomination for “Roots & Traditional Album of the Year.” From the beginning, Edwards’ music defied easy categorization, existing in a timeless space.
Wednesday, June 26th
Al Di Meola (Senor Mouse) takes the Main Stage with his band The Electric Years. A Grammy-winning guitarist known for his 1975 epic work with Return To Forever, Di Meola’s performance will showcase his virtuosity and innovation in jazz fusion.
Thursday, June 27th
At the NAC Azrieli Studio, witness Super Blue featuring Kurt Elling and guitarist Charlie Hunter. Kurt Elling, a jazz vocal icon with multiple Grammy wins, brings his unique style to this collaboration, nominated for Best Alternative Jazz Album, promising an evening of genre-defying music.
Friday, June 28th
On the Main Stage, catch Laufey, the Icelandic sensation hailed for her soulful jazz vocals and multi-instrumental talents. Recently making history as the youngest winner of a Grammy for Best Traditional Pop Vocal Album, Laufey’s performance promises to be a highlight of the festival.
Saturday, June 29th
Norah Jones will perform at the festival on the Main Stage with her enchanting voice and Grammy-winning repertoire. With 9 Grammy wins and 19 nominations, Norah Jones continues to captivate audiences worldwide with her soulful interpretations and musical versatility.
Aja Monet will perform at the NAC. The contemporary poet had a remarkable year in 2024, with her album “When The Poems Do What They Do” receiving a nomination for Best Spoken Word Poetry Album.
The 2024 Ottawa Jazz Festival promises a diverse lineup of world-class musicians spanning jazz, funk, soul, and experimental genres. Whether you’re a longtime jazz enthusiast or looking to explore new musical horizons, don’t miss these unforgettable performances at my favorite Canadian music festival.
Ottawa Jazz Festival
602-294 Albert Street, Ottawa
Ontario, K1P 6E6
ottawajazzfestival.com