The Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council, Councillor Elisha McCallion launching the programme with Orla Mullan, BBC Radio Ulster presenter Walter Love and Andrea Campbell, Events Officer, Derry City and Strabane District Council.
Photo Lorcan Doherty Photography
WITH only days to go until the 15th City of Derry Jazz and Big Band Festival, Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council, Cllr Elisha McCallion says it’s the final countdown to what is going be “one amazing weekend for the city.”
Speaking ahead of the event which takes place over the May Bank Holiday weekend, she said:
“This weekend our city will be absolutely buzzing as the jam packed programme of first class music kicks off.
“The festival has already become a huge event, but 2016 promises to be something extra special.
“It’s a fabulous opportunity to showcase our beautiful city and what the North West has to offer on a global scale, as some of the artists play at the best jazz events throughout the world.
“Our festival also coincides with International Jazz Day on Saturday 30 April and what a way to mark this international occasion, with a city that will be alive with the sound of jazz.”
According to the Mayor one event not to be missed is the Official Opening of the festival taking place this evening April 28th at the Guildhall from 6-8pm.
“This will be a memorable event as it will also be held as a birthday celebration in honour of Derry Jazz legend Gay McIntyre.
“This is perfect opportunity to enjoy a wealth of local talent under one roof, with The Paul McIntyre Trio and a selection of performances by Derry jazz artists including Johnny Quigley, George Hasson, Joe Quigley, John & Fiona Trotter, Jim Whiteside, Jim McDermott and Jackie Molloy.”
The Mayor is particularly excited about her charity event which takes place in Da Vincis Hotel this evening.
“The Manouche Swing & Jive Aces will take to the stage and it’s going to be a great night in support of my chosen charity this year, the fantastic Foyle branch of the Alzheimer’s Society.” Tickets are £7 and the charity event starts at 9:30pm, with doors opening at 8:30pm.
Headline act, Roy Ayers, is also ‘must see’ of the festival, according to festival organiser Andrea Campbell.
“It’s an absolute honour to have the Godfather of Neo Soul, vibraphonist and vocalist, Roy Ayer, play in Derry. He’s among the best known, most loved and respected jazz and R&B artists on the music scene today. Come along and see the legend for yourself on Sunday 1st May at St Columb’s Hall,” she said.
With a wide range of events taking place over the five days, the Mayor says the festival offers “something for everyone” particularly the Jazz Masterclasses, which are open to all ages and abilities.
Hosted by highly acclaimed jazz musicians, John Goldsby, Dennis Rollins and Shane Forbes, the three masterclasses will take place in the Millennium Forum Studio Theatre on Saturday 31 April and Sunday 1 May and are open to all ages and abilities.
To register your interest in attending simply visit www.cityofderryfestival.com/master-classes
Further full information on the City of Derry Jazz & Big Band Festival 2016 visit www.cityofderryjazzfestival.comor Twitter @derryjazzfest
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