From Jan. 30 to Feb. 1, 2025, the Ottawa Winter Jazz Festival takes over Arts Court with a packed lineup spanning the spectrum of jazz and experimental music.
This year’s program features 15 shows, including JUNO Award-winning vocalist Caity Gyorgy (Jan. 30), Cuban jazz master Hilario Duran and his trio (Jan. 31), and a collaboration between Sarah Neufeld, Richard Reed Parry, and Rebecca Foon (Feb. 1) that blends classical, indie, and avant-garde influences. Don Byron, a saxophonist known for his inventive approach, will perform solo (Jan. 31) and with the Michael Occhipinti Quartet (Feb. 1), while Montreal’s Urban Science Brass Band (Feb. 1) promises a vibrant, groove-heavy set on closing night of the festival.
A highlight of the festival is the return of The 33z with a tribute to Quincy Jones at the Alma Duncan Salon (Feb. 1). Ed Lister and Petr Cancura arrange music for The 33z to pay tribute to a legendary act. Previous years have featured the music of Prince, Michael Jackson, and Aretha Franklin to sold out audiences. With guest vocalists and a lineup of Ottawa’s best, their reinterpretations of Quincy Jones’s legendary compositions are sure to be a crowd favourite.
As the festival draws to a close, be sure to catch Yolande Laroche (Feb. 1), who will debut new material blending her classical roots with experimental synth textures. Local funk favourites like NitroTurtle (Jan. 31) promise to bring the groove, and the boundary-pushing supergroup GEORGE (Jan. 30) will showcase their electrifying mix of improvisation and genre-blurring compositions.
Formed during the pandemic by drummer/composer John Hollenbeck, GEORGE’s unclassifiable sound blends avant-garde jazz, electronic experimentation, and fearless improvisation. Featuring Anna Webber (sax/flute), Sarah Rossy (vocals/keys), and Chiquita Magic (keys/voice).
Petr Cancura, the festival’s Artistic and Executive Director, shared the festival’s intent to create meaningful moments through music and build connections in the community. “Winter is a time to come together and celebrate music’s incredible power to inspire and connect.”
With its intimate setting at Arts Court and a lineup showcasing both established artists and emerging talent, the festival offers a distinctive way to experience live music this winter.
For tickets, the full schedule, and more details, visit ottawajazzfestival.com.
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