Music is the Gateway to the Heart
The Festival International de Jazz de Montréal is one of the world’s largest and most renowned jazz festivals. Founded in 1980 by Alain Simard, André Ménard, Denyse McCann, and Alain de Grosbois, the festival attracts legendary and emerging artists from around the globe. This year, the Festival de Jazz Internationale de Montreal will take place from June 29th to July 8th, 2023, promising an unforgettable 10-day celebration of music, culture, and art. With over 500 concerts and activities scheduled, the festival is a must-see for jazz enthusiasts and music lovers of all kinds.
Montrealnightlife.com will help you create your epic night by booking you a table at one of Montreal’s fine restaurants, and they will even hook you up with one of Montreal’s nightclubs or bars if you want to have a drink or two after the concert. That is not all; if you come from out of town, montrealnightlife.com will also care for your hotel needs in ideal city areas and your travel accommodations at the best rates. Call or text them now at 438-995-6496 to find out how you can have the perfect night in Montreal.
Headliners and Big Acts to Look Forward to
Herbie Hancock
Herbie Hancock is a jazz icon and one of the greatest jazz pianists of all time. He has been a significant force in jazz for over five decades and won 14 Grammy Awards. Herbie Hancock will be headlining the Montreal Jazz Festival in 2023, and his performance will surely be a festival highlight.
Wynton Marsalis
Wynton Marsalis is a jazz trumpeter, composer, and bandleader who has won numerous awards, including nine Grammy Awards. He is known for his virtuoso performances and his dedication to jazz education. Wynton Marsalis will perform at the Montreal Jazz Festival in 2023, and his performance will surely be a must-see for jazz enthusiasts.
Esperanza Spalding
Esperanza Spalding is a bassist, singer, and composer praised for her innovative approach to jazz music. She has won four Grammy Awards and has collaborated with some of the biggest names in music. Esperanza Spalding will be performing at the Montreal Jazz Festival in 2023, and her performance is sure to be a highlight of the festival.
Diana Krall
Diana Krall is a Canadian jazz pianist and singer who has sold over 15 million albums worldwide. She has won two Grammy Awards and has been praised for her unique voice and piano-playing style. Diana Krall will be performing at the Montreal Jazz Festival in 2023, and her performance will surely be memorable.
Kamasi Washington
Kamasi Washington is a jazz saxophonist, composer, and bandleader who has been hailed as one of his generation’s most exciting and innovative musicians. He has collaborated with some of the biggest names in music and has released several critically acclaimed albums. Kamasi Washington will be performing at the Montreal Jazz Festival in 2023, and his performance is sure to be a highlight of the festival.
Hidden Gems: Discovering New and Emerging Artists
While the Festival International de Jazz de Montréal is known for attracting legendary jazz musicians worldwide, it’s also a platform for emerging artists to showcase their talent. Here are a few lesser-known acts that are worth checking out at the festival:
The Brooks
This Montreal-based band blends jazz, funk, and soul to create a unique, modern, and nostalgic sound.
Keyon Harrold
This American trumpeter and composer has collaborated with the likes of Beyoncé and Common, and his solo work is a fusion of jazz, hip-hop, and R&B.
Delfeayo Marsalis and the Uptown Jazz Orchestra
Led by trombonist Delfeayo Marsalis, this New Orleans-based orchestra plays a mix of classic and contemporary jazz with a touch of funk and soul.
Emily Steinwall Quartet
This Toronto-based saxophonist and composer brings a fresh perspective to jazz, incorporating folk, classical, and world music elements into her compositions.
Kelsey Lu
This singer-songwriter and cellist from North Carolina has collaborated with Solange and Blood Orange, and her solo work combines jazz, soul, and pop influences.
These are just a few examples of the diverse talent range found at the Festival International de Jazz de Montréal. By exploring some of these hidden gems, festival-goers can discover new and exciting music while supporting emerging artists.
History of the Jazz Festival de Montreal
The Festival International de Jazz de Montréal, founded in 1980 by Alain Simard, André Ménard, Denyse McCann, and Alain de Grosbois, is the largest jazz festival in the world, recognized by the Guinness World Records. The festival is known for its ability to bring together both legendary and emerging artists, creating a diverse and evolving jazz experience. Held in downtown Montreal, the festival offers a mix of indoor and outdoor concerts, with over 350 free, open-air shows on the Place des Festivals, a signature element makes the festival truly unique. Beyond just music, the festival celebrates Montreal’s nightlife, reflecting its movement, intensity, and community, bringing people from all walks of life together in a shared love of jazz music.
