THE Clarence Jazz Festival comes of age this year – and what a celebration it promises to be, with more than 130 musicians from Australia and overseas booked to perform.
The nine-day festival on Hobart’s eastern shore from February 18-26 will encompass a variety of performing styles.
Set in locations around the city with views of Mount Wellington, beaches and vineyards, the festival will feature free outdoor concerts with a relaxed family-friendly feel.
There will be evening ticketed concerts at historic Rosny Barn, as well as Tasmanian fine food and wine.
Artists include Canadian Mike Field and three of the nation’s best jump jive bands – Adelaide’s Lucky Seven, Melbourne’s The Shuffle Club and Yesterday’s Gentlemen – along with the best of Tasmania’s jazz performers.
Three favourite jazz festival ambassadors will join in the celebrations. They are Melbourne saxophonist and vocalist Paul Williamson, Sydney trombonist and vocalist Dan Barnett, and violinist and vocalist George Washingmachine.
“The three of us will be bopping hard and enjoying the best of what Tasmania has to offer, all together for the first time,” Barnett said.
A special collector’s edition vinyl record and jazz history exhibition will mark the 21st birthday.
The festival is organised by Clarence City Council.
Great sounds of Garland, Simone
THE Jazz Lounge at Rosny Barn will play host to two amazing shows as part of the festival.
Anita Cairns sings Nina Simone (2-4pm February 25) is an emotive tribute that will take you through the interpretations and arrangements of the American pianist and singer.
With her musical style fusing gospel and pop, and a rich tapestry of work spanning 40 albums, Cairns has a wealth of music to draw from.
Kaye Payne presents From Gumm to Garland (2-4pm, February 26).
The show explores the life of Judy Garland, from vaudevillian child star to acclaimed actress and singer, featuring the music of Gershwin, Arlen, Berlin, and Rodgers and Hart.