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From Thursday, August 21 to Sunday, August 24, the Port Hope Jazz Festival returns, bringing celebrated Canadian jazz artists to a mix of picturesque venues in downtown Port Hope.
Thursday’s festivities begin with a free concert by the Angela Pincente Big Band in Memorial Park, followed by the high-energy Jeremy Ledbetter Trio at The Blou Room.
Artistic Director Colleen Allen tells us more about something special happening before the free concert at the park.
Newly made instruments in hand, they’ll then head over the to the big band stage and where Sounds of the Next Generation (SONG) will perform the opening set.
Friday features the expressive duo Elizabeth Shepherd and Michael Occhipinti at Beamish House, followed by a performance by the acclaimed Molly Johnson Quartet in Port Hope United Church. The evening wraps up with a lively after-hours jam led by Michael Shand, Duncan Hopkins, and Lorne Nehring.
Allen tells us Saturday’s lineup kicks off with Jazz and Java, where renowned bassist Dave Young reflects on his storied career playing with the likes of Oscar Peterson.
Jazz Brunch follows with the Nancy Walker Quartet, then the Brazilian-inspired André Valério Quartet at Ganaraska Brewing Company, bluesy set from Jenie Thai at Dreamer’s Cafe, and more performances into the night-including Dizzy and Fay and Oakland Stroke-concluding with another jam session.
Allen tells us, with help from the Port Hope BIA, they’ve added a new twist this year.
Sunday brings a mellow close with brunch music from the Ale Nuñez Trio and a set by the Alison Young Sextet. The festival wraps up spiritually with Jazz Vespers, performed by Tryptique at the Port Hope United Church.
Organized by a volunteer-driven, non-profit group, Port Hope Jazz continues to celebrate Canadian jazz excellence, drawing residents and visitors alike for a weekend of immersive cultural joy.
For the full list of performances and venues and to get your tickets, visit Port Hope Jazz Festival | Live Music in Port Hope
(Written by: Joseph Goden)
