A program that comes straight from the heart!
Tickets go on sale this Saturday at noon
Montreal, Tuesday, May 5, 2009 - The 30th edition of the Festival International de Jazz de Montreal marks a genuine turning point in an already remarkable history! The world's #1 jazz event, presented by General Motors of Canada in collaboration with Rio Tinto Alcan, presents a summer full of premieres, surprises, events and the inauguration of new venues that are certain to add new chapters to the story! First and foremost, feast your eyes upon a program worthy of this prestigious anniversary, bejeweled with artists who have shone through these 30 years of musical adventure, but also throwing its arms open to welcome those who will leave their marks on the decades to come. The names of wonderful musical discoveries and the great icons of jazz and its related musics- including, this year, a record number of homegrown musicians, solo and in groups or even orchestras-will light up our marquees even as they glitter in the series listings of this indoor concert program! Some fifteen series will share over 150 concerts, from June 30 to July 12.
Moreover, we'll be celebrating the opening of the brand new Place des festivals as well as the Maison du Festival Rio Tinto Alcan, finally giving the event its official year-round address in the heart of the Quartier des spectacles, in the magnificent Blumenthal Building, graciously ceded to us by the Government of Qubec! Better yet, we'll also provide a new showcase for the music with the opening of L'Astral, the Festival's new live showroom in the Maison, sponsored by Astral Media, offering audience capacity of 200 to 350 seats in the cabaret format and 600 standing, with a configuration that prizes intimacy and optimum sight lines. Whether it's the balcony arcing perfectly around the stage, the stage set in the heart of the crowd, or the fact that no spectator will be more than 15 metres from the artists, it's hard to imagine a better setting for maximum enjoyment of this music we all love! We will inaugurate the new room on Monday, June 29 with a performance by the great Montreal pianist Oliver Jones, featuring special guest Ranee Lee, a concert that will also be offered to the public as as part of the opening of the 30th edition of the Festival, on June 30.
An anniversary celebrated to the max!
1980. Miles Davis rediscovers his trumpet, and jazz, after four years of abstinence; shortly thereafter he brings us-what else?-The Man with the Horn. Pat Metheny, 26, had already left Gary Burton to found his own group. Drummer-keyboardist Jack DeJohnette, accompanied by his group Special Edition, shakes up the jazz scene with his fusion of world music, free jazz, bop and funk. UZEB celebrates a fourth birthday. Scat singer Babs Gonzales and pianist Bill Evans pass into history. An 18-year-old youngster named Wynton Marsalis, trumpet in hand, heralds the future alongside his brother in Art Blakey's Jazz Messengers. Michel Petrucciani launches a debut album, Flash; Weather Report launch their 10th, (Night Passage). And Alain Simard, Andr Mnard and Denyse McCann- youngsters themselves-present the very first edition of a little jazz event… that will become the largest jazz festival in the world! Thirty years later, the evidence is clear: anniversary or not, this Festival makes every year a celebration-of jazz, music, and above all, the life-force itself! So just imagine the passion of a 30th anniversary!
An edition full of anniversaries, including 70 years of Blue Note and 10 years of Effendi Birthdays being more about giving than receiving, the Festival marks its 30th by paying tribute to other notable anniversaries. We'll celebrate 70 years of prestigious music from legendary record label Blue Note-a longevity unequaled in the record industry-which, under the leadership of Bruce Lundval, made global stars of Miles Davis, Al Green, John Coltrane and Thelonious Monk, and newcomers including Norah Jones and Avishai Cohen. Many artists from the label's peerless catalogue will illuminate our program, whether solo or in group formats: Erik Truffaz, Joe Lovano, Patricia Barber, Wynton Marsalis, Eliane Elias, Kenny Werner, Ornette Coleman, Robert Glasper, Chucho Valds, Gonzalo Rubalcaba, Bill Charlap, Aaron Parks and Lionel Loueke; and don't miss the exhibition of Blue Note album covers presented by the Festival. We'll also mark the 55th anniversary of the Newport Jazz Festival, represented by founder and, in a sense, “father” of all subsequent jazzfests, George Wein, who brings in his Newport All Stars. Montreal's Effendi label marks its own 10th birthday with performances from roster artists including Jean Pierre Zanella, Andr Leroux, Alain Bdard, Joel Miller, Franois Bourassa, John Roney and Michel Donato. Finally, don't miss a pair of 50th anniversaries of landmark albums-in two Festival concerts!: Time Out by Dave Brubeck, the first jazz album to have sold over one million copies, and Kind of Blue by Miles Davis, the biggest-selling jazz album in history.
Miles Davis at the Festival
Speaking of Miles, this 30th Festival edition tips its chapeau to one of the greatest artist the jazz world ever knew-naturally, from the Blue Note stable-with a program of concerts inspired by his legendary oeuvre: the first fittingly relives the mastery of Kind of Blue, 50 years after its release, thanks to the participation of Jimmy Cobb, last surviving member of the original recording, and his So What Band; the second, Miles from India, is a major musical project fusing Indian culture and American jazz, in a Canadian exclusive; and the third is the superb Sketches of MD, in which Kenny Garrett-the man Miles Davis himself called the “most important alto saxophonist since Coltrane”-pays tribute to the master with his own compositions à la Miles.
Thirty years of excellence, enough choices for a lifetime!
The opening concert of this 30th edition of the Festival International de Jazz de Montreal turns the spotlight on fabulous trumpeter Wynton Marsalis and the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra, featuring flamenco piano sensation Chano Dominguez and his quartet. In the closing concert, Montreal Variations celebrates our city itself with its greatest pianists- Oliver Jones, Franois Bourassa, James Gelfand, Alain Lefèvre, Guy Dubuc, Luc Beaugrand, Guy St Onge and Lorraine Desmarais-performing compositions created specifically with the metropolis as muse. And among the many other special events, we must absolutely emphasize Jazzing Flamenco, in residence for the entire Festival run, from the same team behind the flamboyant Tango Flamenco: a concert offering a remarkable fusion of two genres which we naively believed shared nothing more than their respective fierce passion!
This year, it's harder than ever to pick out individual gems from a collection this brilliant! Shall we begin with legends, from Ornette Coleman to Jeff Beck, or names like Joe Cocker, Tony Bennett and Jackson Browne? Or should the spotlight shine on a superb contingent of female artists illuminating virtually every series and featuring divine representatives from every musical genre, including Melody Gardot, Susie Arioli, Jill Barber, Esperanza Spalding, Sophie Milman, Patricia Barber, Anat Cohen, Madeleine Peyroux, Trez Montcalm, Hiromi, Bïa, La India, Eliane Elias, Lorraine Desmarais, Lila Downs or the sparkling China Forbes of Pink Martini? We cannot fail to mention our own local artists, who enrich an already multicultural jazz language with their own lovely Qubcois and Canadian accents: Julie Lamontagne, Alain Caron, Michel Donato, Jean Pierre Zanella or the artists paying Tribute to val Manigat, our world music pioneer who passed away last summer. It's impossible not to hail the enduringly popular Invitation series, which moves into the remarkably intimate confines of the Gesù to once again thrill its ever- devoted fans: the menu includes three delicious courses from French trumpeter Eric Truffaz, who transports us to Bnarès, Paris and Mexico; followed by a serving of saxophone from the charismatic Joshua Redman, whose three-night run features the gourmet musicianship of artists including Aaron Parks and Joe Lovano; and a pièce de rsistance from Renaud Garcia Fons in three versions, first in flamenco mode with his bajo andaluz, then in duet with accordion and finally in quartet.
Special events Festival Pre-opening: Gary Burton Quartet Revisited with Pat Metheny, Steve Swallow and Antonio Sanchez, June 26, 7:30 p.m., Salle Wilfrid-Pelletier de la PdA
While groups combining major jazz names come and go, few possess the intimate musical bond of this historic quartet led by vibraphonist Gary Burton. This innovative jazzman, discovered by Montrealers in the '70s before the Festival had even been created, was a major force behind the ascension of jazz fusion and the jazz duo format so popular today. He welcomes bassist Steve Swallow and drummer Antonio Sanchez, as well as the musician who came to the fore in this fabulous quartet, guitarist Pat Metheny-not simply one of the most beloved of Festival veterans, but one of the most important players in the history of this Festival, honouring us once again with his presence in this exceptional 30th anniversary pre-opening concert!
Jazzing Flamenco, 8 p.m., Thtre du Nouveau Monde June 30 (6 p.m.), July 2 to 6 and 8 to 11 presented by Air France
It's a concert destined to re-amaze fans of Tango Flamenco, the previous coup from the same creative team! Born of a fervent desire to modernize Spanish classical dance by fusing different musical genres (jazz, blues, soul and flamenco), Jazzing Flamenco is a production boasting an absolutely unique style. Madrid choreographer Antonio Najarro brings originality and a breath of fresh air to the current dance scene. Making daring choices, he aims to liberate-and at the same time, reconcile-tradition and modernity in a skillful creation inspired by two inventive domains, two brilliant cultures, marrying the magic of flamenco to the elegance of jazz.
Battle of the Bands with the Glenn Miller Orchestra and the Harry James Orchestra, July 12, 3:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m., Salle Wilfrid Pelletier, PdA
After yet another phenomenally successful take on this historic concept last summer, get ready for the special closing-day event of the 30th edition featuring an all-new “Battle of the Bands"! The world's swinginest big band, the Glenn Miller Orchestra led by Larry O'Brien, matches up against a most worthy adversary making its first-ever visit to Montreal-despite their immense popularity-the Harry James Orchestra led by legendary trumpeter Fred Radke! Flashback to the great ballrooms of New York in the late '30s. In a concept revisited by the Festival, two legendary orchestras share the stage at the same time, battling it out for the honour of their incredible respective repertoires-no holds barred! And if some liberties are taken, if one orchestra poaches a signature tune or two- or even a musician!-from the other, it only adds to the fun! The program, series by series
Pleins feux General Motors series, 7:30 p.m., Salle Wilfrid-Pelletier, PdA
Start the Festival with a bang with the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra with Wynton Marsalis and very special guest, flamenco piano sensation Chano Dominguez and his quartet (June 30): a famous American trumpeter, one of the most accomplished Big Bands in jazz history, and a Spanish pianist who fuses jazz, swing, blues and flamenco with flair! We're thanking our lucky stars to have the piano, guitar and, above all, the voice of Jamie Cullum (July 1) at the Festival; the most popular British jazz artist of all time, he's scored music for Clint Eastwood! Opening act: Hilary Kole. This summer, Montreal soars to the suave trumpet of American virtuoso Chris Botti (July 2), in the jewel-like setting of an orchestra bringing its own polish to his glittering pop-jazz. Jazz singer, crooner, illustrious interpreter of the American popular songbook, Tony Bennett (July 3) is the man Frank Sinatra himself considered the greatest vocalist in the biz! Back after last year's star turn in the Invitation series, jazz icon Dave Brubeck (July 4) honours us with a celebration of the 50th anniversary of his legendary Time Out, treating us to reinterpretations of such classics as Take Five and Blue Rondo à la Turk. She has sung for Nelson Mandela and Quincy Jones; he's got a mantle full of Grammys. And we have the pleasure of enjoying A special evening featuring Al Jarreau and Molly Johnson (July 5), featuring gorgeous pop and soul, jazz ballads and two personalities whose warmth fills a room. Sonic adventurer Jeff Beck (July 6)-successor to Eric Clapton in the legendary Yardbirds alongside Jimmy Page, and hailed by Jimi Hendrix, a man forever exploring the musical unknown-thrills guitar and music fiends with his first ever performance in Montreal! Swing, jazz, classical, pop, all genres-and every language!-are shaken and stirred by Pink Martini (July 7 and 8), returning this time accompanied by a 51-piece orchestra! His rock-soul sound is one of a kind, his whisky-soul voice one in a million; every Joe Cocker (July 9) song is a force of nature that shakes you to the core! Slingin' guitar and surrounded by his bompin' orchestra, king of the Stray Cats Brian Setzer (July 10) finally struts back into Montreal with his tail in the air to drive all the kitties wild with his torrid swing and jump blues! Jackson Browne (July 11) gives us the scoop on his 12th solo album with his new show, Time The Conqueror… along with the timeless classics from four decades that made him a legend!
Les Grands concerts TD Canada Trust series, 9:30 p.m., Thtre Maisonneuve, PdA
The music of the Maria Schneider Jazz Orchestra (June 30, 8 p.m.) brings a majesty and magic that are impossible to categorize. Opening act: Julian Lage. It's a genuine pleasure to welcome the four virtuosos of the Monterey Quartet with Dave Holland, Gonzalo Rubalcaba, Chris Potter and Eric Harland, onstage together in a rare evening that absolutely cannot be missed! Pianist Chucho Valds (July 2) is not simply the Cuban ambassador of Latin jazz, he's one of the living legends of the genre-back for the first time in seven years! Welcome back this saxophonist, composer, high priest of spontaneity and musical freedom, and virtuoso improviser with over 40 years of musical exploration to his credit, at the head of his Wayne Shorter Quartet (July 3). Following on from the double album of the same name, Miles from India (July 4) is a musical encounter fusing Indian culture and the American jazz of Miles Davis, a legend among legends. Memorable moments are guaranteed by the palpable musical connection shared by the Branford Marsalis Quartet (July 5)-just ask anyone whose mind was blown by the saxophonist-composer and his group in 2006! The Ornette Coleman Quartet (July 9) grants us the long-awaited return of a 79-year-old jazz immortal, pioneer of free jazz, who hasn't visited the Festival since 1988! American rapper and actor Mos Def and hip hop-influenced pianist Robert Glasper (July 10) explore the fusion of two musical styles in which rhythm and groove combine wonderfully well. For the first time at the Festival, the Harlem Gospel Choir (July 11) lift us heavenward with a soul-firing spectacle!
Rythmes Bell series, 8:30 p.m., Mtropolis
Seven years after their sellout concert here, Kool & The Gang (July 1), the legendary R&B outfit, return for a celebration! Opening act: Stphane Moraille. It's an utterly exciting blues guitar double bill, starring the legendary Buddy Guy and, for the first time at the Festival, Susan Tedeschi (July 2). Get salsafied when La India (July 3) brings us the grooves of her new album, Soy Diferente. Opening act: Jesus El Niño. After last year's blowout success, welcome back torrid trio The Lost Fingers (July 4, exclusively at 6 p.m.), shaking up the summer with their gypsy-jazzified '80s classics. King Sunny Ade & Femi Kuti & The Positive Force (July 5) deliver a double bill sure to enter the annals of Afrobeat concerts in Montreal! It's an all-Africa evening with elegant Malian diva Oumou Sangare (July 8), sorely missed in these parts for a good 15 years, and Ivory Coast icon Alpha Blondy, international reggae titan often compared to the mighty Bob Marley. Burning Spear and Toots & The Maytals (July 9), bring two legendary reputations and Jamaican ambience for a concert that bears the reggae seal of greatness! One was described as the new Lauryn Hill by the great Wyclef, the other sang backup for Nelly Furtado: Estelle and Divine Brown (July 10) are the two newest stars in the R&B firmament. The music of Beirut (July 11) is a paradox in which the sounds of Eastern Europe, American pop, folk, accordion, and ukulele are harmoniously fused. Opening act: The Dodos.
En voix Rio Tinto Alcan series, 6 p.m., Thtre Maisonneuve, PdA
A genuine revelation at last summer's Festival, irresistibly charming American singer, guitarist and pianist Melody Gardot (July 1 and 2) was an instant unanimous hit for her incredible magnetism and exquisite jazz pop… and she's back with a new album! After a brief appearance in last summer's major Leonard Cohen tribute, Madeleine Peyroux (July 3 and 5) steps into Thtre Maisonneuve to treat us to her full repertoire of folk, country and jazz from the '30s. She's back with a successful new album, Night Lights-25,000 copies sold, a successful launch in Europe, and a 5-star rating from ejazznews.com: Susie Arioli (July 4), accompanied by excellent guitarist Jordan Officer! It all started right here at the Festival for Russian-born Canadian singer Sophie Milman, who launched Take Love Easy this year and won a Juno for Make Someone Happy. Undisputed master of the double bass-and this time, also a singer!-Charlie Haden moves the whole kin to Montreal for his Family and Friends show (July 8) featuring the Rambling Boy album, and extraordinary bluegrass project of traditional Midwestern music. Van der Graaf Generator (July 9): Peter Hammill and his pioneering progressive rock band conjure dark, complex lyrics and a spellbinding psychedelia. Festival darling Patricia Barber (July 10) lays her piano and deep, suave voice at the service of The Cole Porter Mix, her latest album dedicated to her idol. A past master in the art of reinventing jazz classics, sometimes with a swing or even pop accent, John Pizzarelli (July 11) brings in a septet of tuned-in musicians (Swing Seven) for a party that's sure to-yes-swing!
Primeur ARTV series, 7:30 p.m., Cinquième Salle, PdA
Angèle Dubeau breathes new life into Philip Glass-Portrait (June 30, July 1 and 2), her album featuring pieces from the fertile mind and career of the American master of minimalism. Zachary Richard (July 8 to 11), our favourite Cajun, delivers inspired music including songs from his first English album in 15 years, Last Kiss. This year, the Montreal Guitar Show series Guitarissimo shares the Cinquième Salle in PdA with the Primeur series, ringing out three evenings of pure six-string enchantment! Monte Mongomery (6 p.m.), Peppino D'Agostino (8 p.m.) and Russell Malone (10 p.m.) open things up on July 3 with the best the instrument has to offer! The following evening (July 4), guitar heroes Sylvain Provost (6 p.m.), Frank Vignola (8 p.m.) and Olivier Langevin (10 p.m.) power up their dream machines! And for a perfect closer (July 5), guitarists Don Alder (6 p.m.), Muriel and Valrie (8 p.m.) and Stanley Jordan (10 p.m.) make beautiful music!
Les Couleurs SAQ series, 7 p.m., Club Soda
Luciana Souza, grande dame of the bossa-nova and Romero Lubambo, extraordinary Brazilian guitarist, offer us their aurally warming Brazilian Duos (July 1)! Emilie Claire Barlow (July 2), the rising star of Canadian jazz, has been described as a sweeter Diana Krall; she's here with her latest album, Haven't We Met. Eleni Mandell (July 3), Quebec's favourite Californian, brings in her rockier, even dancier sound with Artificial Fire, released in February. Joyce (July 4), as complete an artist as you'll find anywhere, is a marvelous singer and peerless guitarist, considered the finest singer-songwriter in Brazil. In his first Festival visit, astonishing Australian guitarist John Butler (July 5) performs solo and also in duet with percussionist Nicky Bomba. By popular demand after their smash success at the MONTREAL HIGH LIGHTS Festival, the tide brings Pacifika (July 6) back in; their Asuncin album was named one of the Revelations of 2008 by Radio Canada Musique. A shot of Janis Joplin, a soupon of dith Piaf and a suggestion of Ella Fitzgerald: that's Trez Montcalm (July 8), a unique, original a timeless songstress, offering us Connection. The rhythmic jazz-rock, Afroboogie influences and irresistible personality of Malian guitarist and singer Vieux Farka Tour (July 9), worthy inheritor of his father's talents, will keep Club Soda dancing all night long! Spirited and brilliant Mexican muse Lila Downs (July 10)-who collaborated on the soundtrack for Frida-alights in Montreal with her sublime Shake Away. DeVotchKa's (July 11) American world-rock is a brilliant fusion of international sounds and American punk-folk roots... De-LightFul!
Invitation Hyatt Regency Montreal series, 6 p.m., Gesù - Centre de crativit presented in collaboration with Galaxie
The prestigious Invitation series finds an intimate home for this year's stellar run! French trumpeter Erik Truffaz opens things with three consecutive concerts bringing his triple- CD set Rendez-vous to life in a series of high-calibre musical encounters. He first disembarks in Benares (July 1), with vocals, piano, trumpet and tablas in Indrani and Apurba Mukherjee Indian salon along with Malcolm Braff. Next is a stopover in Mexico (July 2), accompanied by electronica artist Murcof and Talvin Singh, undisputed master of the tables and a virtuoso on the wheels of steel. Finally, we land in Paris (July 3) for inventive exchanges between the trumpet virtuoso, beatboxer Sly Johnson and incredible drummer and percussionist Philippe Garcia. It's the perfect jazz-rap final destination in this unique and transporting triptych.
Exceptional saxophonist Joshua Redman opens a three-night series with a gallery of musicians whose reputations are assured: emerging pianist Aaron Parks, Texan drummer Eric Harland and New Zealand bassist Matt Penman (July 4). Joe Lovano, Greg Hutchison, Reuben Rogers and Sam Yahel (July 5) make up a two-sax quintet for this second voyage through the Redman universe. Joshua Redman's Compass, with Brian Blade, Greg Hutchinson, Larry Grenadier and Reuben Rogers (July 6) guides us through a most daring concept: five musicians, two trios… with a saxophonist as the common denominator! (This concert in the Invitation series is specially presented in Thtre Maisonneuve, PdAm, at 9:30 p.m.)
Renaud Garcia-Fons confirmed his virtuoso standing last year: his five-string bass sings to the stroke of his bow! In Bajo Andaluz-Double Bass meets Flamenco Dancer (July 9), he takes the stage solo with his Spanish double bass, then welcomes young Sabrina Romero, Andalusian singer, dancer and percussionist from Lyons, for a fiery flamenco duet. The following day, he'll share the stage in a duet with Jean Louis Matinier (July 10), accordion virtuoso, with whom he shares a drive to destroy musical boundaries. In his third evening, Garcia Fons convenes a quartet of masters with David Venitucci, Kiko Ruiz and Pascal Rolando (July 11), as double bass, accordion, flamenco guitar and percussion trace the “transcultural” music of the newly-released Linea del Sur.
Jazz Beat TD Canada Trust series, 8 p.m., Thtre Jean-Duceppe, PdA. Presented by CBC Radio 2 (93.5 FM)
With his acoustic quartet (two guitars, an accordion and percussion), guitar legend Al di Meola toasts our 30th anniversary with a world music inspired as much by flamenco and tango as Cuban rhythms: welcome to New World Sinfonia (July 1). In a Festival debut, welcome Sadao Watanabe (July 2), one of the most renowned Japanese musicians of our era and the top jazz star in his native land. Eliane Elias (July 3) weaves musical tales with her latest album, Bossa Nova Stories, celebrating the 50th anniversary of the bossa nova. A beautiful evening awaits with alto saxophonist Kenny Garrett (July 4), with music from Sketches of MD as the pièce de rsistance. Piano master Kenny Werner leads a quintet featuring major players Antonio Sanchez (drums), David Sanchez (saxophone), Scott Colley (double bass) and Randy Brecker (trumpet) in a concert specially conceived for this summer (July 5). Remembering the Miles Davis Classic Kind of Blue @ 50, with Jimmy Cobb's So What Band featuring Wallace Roney, Vincent Herring, Javon Jackson, Larry Willis & Buster Williams (July 6) allows us to rediscover a landmark album with a journey down the avenues of jazz classics. Enjoy an exceptional evening with the Bill Frisell Quartet with Tony Scherr, Rudy Royston and Ron Miles (July 8). Pianist and composer Lorraine Desmarais (July 9) welcomes special guest Oliver Jones for a presentation of her latest album, Big Band. The Festival celebrates its 30th by inviting and honouring George Wein, producer, promoter, pianist and “father” of jazz festivals, along with his Newport All Stars with Lew Tabackin, Randy Sandke, Howard Alden, Peter Washington and Lewis Nash (July 10). Alain Caron & Franois Bourrassa (July 11), two major stars of the Montreal jazz scene, join forces for a jazz summit dedicated to virtuosity, a must-see tête- à-tête for all true music lovers!
Jazz d'ici La Presse series, 6 p.m., L'Astral
A jazz giant and worthy inheritor of Oscar Peterson's legacy, Oliver Jones (June 30) thrills us once more this summer-and hopefully again and again!-with special guest Ranee Lee. Julie Lamontagne and her trio (July 1), double bassist Dave Watts and drummer Richard Irwin, ask the musical question Now What, alongside brilliant saxophonist Donny McCaslin. Harmonca master Guy Blanger (July 2) once again fires up the Festival with his presence; without his harp, the Quebec blues scene would simply not have been the same these past three decades… Back in time for the 30th, Dan Thouin's jazz collective Le Large Ensemble (July 3) assembles a galaxy of stars including Yannick Rieu, Olivier Langevin and Jocelyn Tellier. The very versatile Andr Leroux (July 4), clarinetist and flautist, works in the jazz domain as much as in the classical and popular traditions; he brings us a new album, Corpus Callosum. A man for all seasons, Alain Bdard (founder of Effendi Records) presents Auguste (July 5), a first-rate quintet, the highly-acclaimed Bluesy Lunedi and remarkable French saxophonist Julien Lourau, making his first visit to the Festival. The biggest names in Montreal music, including Karen Young, Stphane Moraille, Jean Vanasse and Martial Mron, pay Tribute to val Manigat (July 6), the father of world music in Quebec, who passed away last summer. With a passion for music and a decided penchant for improv, Yannick Rieu unveils his Spectrum, with Rmi Jean Leblanc, Samuel Joly, Dan Thouin and Jocelyn Tellier (July 8). Prolific saxophonist Joel Miller (July 9) presents his 6th album, Tantramar, accompanied by versatile pianist, composer, producer and arranger Henry Hey. Inspired by the music of Eastern Europe, double bassist and Festival darling Michel Donato (July 10) heads in with Romanian accordionist Marin Nasturica and Georgian pianist Loran Djintcharadze. It's a family affair when the Toussaint brothers of Sacb-the most important jazz group in Mexico - join forces with excellent instrumentalist and Quebec favourite Jean-Pierre Zanella (July 11).
Jazz dans la nuit series, 10:30 p.m., Gesù - Centre de crativit. Though 33 years may separate them, pianist Stefano Bollani and trumpeter Enrico Rava (June 30) are musical and spiritual brothers; together, these two talented Italians have developed a rare musical connection! The Baptiste Trotignon Quintet featuring Mark Turner, Jeremy Pelt, Greg Hutchison and Matt Penman (July 1) roll in to demonstrate the universality of jazz. Wherever singer, double bassist and composer Esperanza Spalding (July 2) goes, the term “prodigy” is sure to follow; she's won over Prince, and even sung for President Obama. Illustrious improvisational saxophonist Lee Konitz finally returns to the Festival, accompanied by Minsarah, a creative and experimental American/German/Israeli trio (July 3). Brian Blade (July 4), singular jazz drummer with an original progressive style, visits us with longtime friends the Fellowship Band, with whom he recorded his 3rd album, Seasons of Change, in 2008. For this 30th edition of the Festival, the legendary Hadouk Trio (July 5) whisks us away on a cosmopolitan voyage perfumed by the East, illuminated by African colours, and flavoured bittersweetly by the Americas. French saxophonist Julien Lourau, Serbian pianist Bojan Zulfikarpa_iand Algerian drummer Karim Ziad are BoZiLo (July 6), creating jazz coloured by their native lands, grooving to funk, Balkan and North African accents. Japanese pianist Hiromi (July 8), who recorded the Duets album with Chick Corea, brings in her group Sonicbloom. Indian saxophonist Rudresh Mahanthappa travels new avenues in the future of jazz with his Indo-Pak Coalition project, artfully playing with improvised musical forms from South Asia (July 9). Pianist Bill Charlap and saxophonist Houston Person make for an exceptional duo with You Taught My Heart To Sing (July 10). American saxophonist Greg Osby (July 11) has improv in his blood and jazz in his DNA! He's the perfect closer for the Jazz dans la nuit series!
Concerts intimes Planète Jazz series, 7 p.m., Savoy
A must-see artist from the prestigious No Format label, Haitian-Canadian Mlissa Laveaux (July 1 and 2) weaves a rare intimacy and poetry with her songs, voice and guitar. After selling out concerts at the last two editions of the Festival, Montreal guitar virtuoso Jordan Officer (from July 3 to 5-July 4 exclusively at 8:30 p.m.), whom we discovered at the heart of Susie Arioli's band, launches a first solo album this year coloured by authentic jazz, blues and country influences. The gentle, fragile voice, folk songs and poetry of NEeMA (July 6) take equal inspiration from Amerindian culture, her Eqyptian/Lebanese roots, and the many countries she's visited. The romantic disillusionment of singer- songwriter Jason Bajada (July 8 and 9) rings out wonderfully well in the melodic folk-rock of his ear-and-eye-catching 3rd album, Loveshit. Banjo, clarinet, accordion and harmonica are just a few of the instruments behind the jazz, western, folk and roots melodies of dust-raising quartet Po'Girl (July 10 and 11).
Jazz au Club series, 9 p.m., L'Astral in collaboration with Galaxie When the Bad Plus (June 30, 11 p.m., and July 1, 9 p.m.) unleash their avant-garde pop- rock-electro jazz in a room this intimate, you're talking about a genuine event! After whetting our appetities with an all-too-brief visit last year, Dominick Farinacci (July 2), trumpet genius discovered at age 15 by Wynton Marsalis, returns with a show all his own… and all for us! Emerging young pianist and composer Aaron Parks (July 3) describes his music as spontaneous and cinematographic; with Invisible Cinema, his acoustic jazz gem, he feeds two passions for the price of one! Son of renowned bassist John Clayton, Gerald Clayton (July 4) has made his own name as a pianist; he'll be accompanied by Joe Sanders (double bass) and Justin Brown (drums). One thing is certain: those lucky enough to have caught Benin guitar poet Lionel Loueke (July 5) at the Montreal Guitar Show in 2007 will race to this new concert fusing African traditions, jazz and technical mastery! Whether on clarinet or saxophone, young Anat Cohen (July 6) amazes audiences with her compositions and covers, in jazz and world music. We've already fallen hard for the boogie-woogie of pianist-singer Michael Kaeshammer, rising star in English Canada (July 8)… and we want more! After a six-year absence, Brazilian musical voyager Bïa (July 9) unpacks her omnilingual folk and beckons the Festival in with a hushed voice! Charming and sexy Jill Barber (July 10) breathes exquisite new life into '40s-style jazz on a 4th album, Chances, written in collaboration with Ron Sexsmith. Making it look ridiculously easy, Somi (July 11) sings world-ly jazz-in a four-octave voice!-that has all the bona fides to make her a major jazz vocalist.
Les Nuits Heineken series, midnight, Club Soda With a second album ready to go, Montreal trip hop duo Elsiane (July 1) close out their Hybrid tour with an all-new show, probably its final local presentation! Brit musician Kevin Martin saves his best dub-electro-dancehall rhythms for musical project The Bug (July 2) and gets the dancefloor buzzing! Lyons novo-dub quintet High Tone (July 3), already a dozen years into their career, make a 3rd Festival appearance Festival. Get ready for a daring double set from electro-rock group Thunderheist (July 4): a live first half, followed by a full-on DJ climax! The instrumental post-rock of Pawa Up First (July 5) conjures a genuine cine-rock experience, an impeccable crossbreed of Kubrick, Hitchcock and Leone. The intimacy of Club Soda is the setting for the deep musical therapy of Montreal's most celebrated experimental rockers The Dears (July 6), treating us to an intense range of emotions! The Orb (July 8), UK electronica pioneers, inventors of ambient house, bring the house down for a debut Festival performance! Brilliant Montreal dream-rock band The Bell Orchestre (July 9) cause a sensation everywhere they go. In a second Festival appearance, mixer-composer Bonobo (July 10) rolls out a barrelful of monkeys: funky hip hop for the ears and booty, a full band for the complete live experience. It's a jungle in there! Internationally renowned DJ Misstress Barbara makes her fist all-out live performance accompanied by her two musicians, preceded by a stage-rockin' set from electro group Claass (July 11)!
The Croisière Jazz, 7 p.m., Cavalier Maxim boat, King Edward Quay, Old Port of Montreal Les Croisières AML serve up a five-course dinner show aboard the Cavalier Maxim from July 1-3 and 6-10. Accompanied by her quartet, Montreal diva Ranee Lee treats her guests to a menu of masterpieces from her repertoire of jazz standards and self-penned compositions. Departure at 6 p.m. from King Edward Quay in the Old Port of Montreal, returning at 11 p.m. Reservations required-call 514-842 3871 or 1-800-563 4643.
Info-Jazz Bell: indispensable information tools
Grouped together under the banner Info-Jazz Bell, information tools for the Festival are easily accessed by anyone who wants to know everything that's happening at the biggest jazz festival in the world. The general public is cordially invited to pick up the official Festival pamphlet, Info Jazz Bell Indoor Concerts Schedule or to call the Bell Info-Jazz Line at: Montreal Region: 514 871 1881. Long-distance calls made from within Canada or the United States (toll-free): 1 888 515 0515
Complete programming for free outdoor concerts and activities at the 30th edition of the Festival International de Jazz de Montreal will be announced this coming June 8.
Tickets go on sale this Saturday at noon
Montreal, Tuesday, May 5, 2009 - The 30th edition of the Festival International de Jazz de Montreal marks a genuine turning point in an already remarkable history! The world's #1 jazz event, presented by General Motors of Canada in collaboration with Rio Tinto Alcan, presents a summer full of premieres, surprises, events and the inauguration of new venues that are certain to add new chapters to the story! First and foremost, feast your eyes upon a program worthy of this prestigious anniversary, bejeweled with artists who have shone through these 30 years of musical adventure, but also throwing its arms open to welcome those who will leave their marks on the decades to come. The names of wonderful musical discoveries and the great icons of jazz and its related musics- including, this year, a record number of homegrown musicians, solo and in groups or even orchestras-will light up our marquees even as they glitter in the series listings of this indoor concert program! Some fifteen series will share over 150 concerts, from June 30 to July 12.
Moreover, we'll be celebrating the opening of the brand new Place des festivals as well as the Maison du Festival Rio Tinto Alcan, finally giving the event its official year-round address in the heart of the Quartier des spectacles, in the magnificent Blumenthal Building, graciously ceded to us by the Government of Qubec! Better yet, we'll also provide a new showcase for the music with the opening of L'Astral, the Festival's new live showroom in the Maison, sponsored by Astral Media, offering audience capacity of 200 to 350 seats in the cabaret format and 600 standing, with a configuration that prizes intimacy and optimum sight lines. Whether it's the balcony arcing perfectly around the stage, the stage set in the heart of the crowd, or the fact that no spectator will be more than 15 metres from the artists, it's hard to imagine a better setting for maximum enjoyment of this music we all love! We will inaugurate the new room on Monday, June 29 with a performance by the great Montreal pianist Oliver Jones, featuring special guest Ranee Lee, a concert that will also be offered to the public as as part of the opening of the 30th edition of the Festival, on June 30.
An anniversary celebrated to the max!
1980. Miles Davis rediscovers his trumpet, and jazz, after four years of abstinence; shortly thereafter he brings us-what else?-The Man with the Horn. Pat Metheny, 26, had already left Gary Burton to found his own group. Drummer-keyboardist Jack DeJohnette, accompanied by his group Special Edition, shakes up the jazz scene with his fusion of world music, free jazz, bop and funk. UZEB celebrates a fourth birthday. Scat singer Babs Gonzales and pianist Bill Evans pass into history. An 18-year-old youngster named Wynton Marsalis, trumpet in hand, heralds the future alongside his brother in Art Blakey's Jazz Messengers. Michel Petrucciani launches a debut album, Flash; Weather Report launch their 10th, (Night Passage). And Alain Simard, Andr Mnard and Denyse McCann- youngsters themselves-present the very first edition of a little jazz event… that will become the largest jazz festival in the world! Thirty years later, the evidence is clear: anniversary or not, this Festival makes every year a celebration-of jazz, music, and above all, the life-force itself! So just imagine the passion of a 30th anniversary!
An edition full of anniversaries, including 70 years of Blue Note and 10 years of Effendi Birthdays being more about giving than receiving, the Festival marks its 30th by paying tribute to other notable anniversaries. We'll celebrate 70 years of prestigious music from legendary record label Blue Note-a longevity unequaled in the record industry-which, under the leadership of Bruce Lundval, made global stars of Miles Davis, Al Green, John Coltrane and Thelonious Monk, and newcomers including Norah Jones and Avishai Cohen. Many artists from the label's peerless catalogue will illuminate our program, whether solo or in group formats: Erik Truffaz, Joe Lovano, Patricia Barber, Wynton Marsalis, Eliane Elias, Kenny Werner, Ornette Coleman, Robert Glasper, Chucho Valds, Gonzalo Rubalcaba, Bill Charlap, Aaron Parks and Lionel Loueke; and don't miss the exhibition of Blue Note album covers presented by the Festival. We'll also mark the 55th anniversary of the Newport Jazz Festival, represented by founder and, in a sense, “father” of all subsequent jazzfests, George Wein, who brings in his Newport All Stars. Montreal's Effendi label marks its own 10th birthday with performances from roster artists including Jean Pierre Zanella, Andr Leroux, Alain Bdard, Joel Miller, Franois Bourassa, John Roney and Michel Donato. Finally, don't miss a pair of 50th anniversaries of landmark albums-in two Festival concerts!: Time Out by Dave Brubeck, the first jazz album to have sold over one million copies, and Kind of Blue by Miles Davis, the biggest-selling jazz album in history.
Miles Davis at the Festival
Speaking of Miles, this 30th Festival edition tips its chapeau to one of the greatest artist the jazz world ever knew-naturally, from the Blue Note stable-with a program of concerts inspired by his legendary oeuvre: the first fittingly relives the mastery of Kind of Blue, 50 years after its release, thanks to the participation of Jimmy Cobb, last surviving member of the original recording, and his So What Band; the second, Miles from India, is a major musical project fusing Indian culture and American jazz, in a Canadian exclusive; and the third is the superb Sketches of MD, in which Kenny Garrett-the man Miles Davis himself called the “most important alto saxophonist since Coltrane”-pays tribute to the master with his own compositions à la Miles.
Thirty years of excellence, enough choices for a lifetime!
The opening concert of this 30th edition of the Festival International de Jazz de Montreal turns the spotlight on fabulous trumpeter Wynton Marsalis and the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra, featuring flamenco piano sensation Chano Dominguez and his quartet. In the closing concert, Montreal Variations celebrates our city itself with its greatest pianists- Oliver Jones, Franois Bourassa, James Gelfand, Alain Lefèvre, Guy Dubuc, Luc Beaugrand, Guy St Onge and Lorraine Desmarais-performing compositions created specifically with the metropolis as muse. And among the many other special events, we must absolutely emphasize Jazzing Flamenco, in residence for the entire Festival run, from the same team behind the flamboyant Tango Flamenco: a concert offering a remarkable fusion of two genres which we naively believed shared nothing more than their respective fierce passion!
This year, it's harder than ever to pick out individual gems from a collection this brilliant! Shall we begin with legends, from Ornette Coleman to Jeff Beck, or names like Joe Cocker, Tony Bennett and Jackson Browne? Or should the spotlight shine on a superb contingent of female artists illuminating virtually every series and featuring divine representatives from every musical genre, including Melody Gardot, Susie Arioli, Jill Barber, Esperanza Spalding, Sophie Milman, Patricia Barber, Anat Cohen, Madeleine Peyroux, Trez Montcalm, Hiromi, Bïa, La India, Eliane Elias, Lorraine Desmarais, Lila Downs or the sparkling China Forbes of Pink Martini? We cannot fail to mention our own local artists, who enrich an already multicultural jazz language with their own lovely Qubcois and Canadian accents: Julie Lamontagne, Alain Caron, Michel Donato, Jean Pierre Zanella or the artists paying Tribute to val Manigat, our world music pioneer who passed away last summer. It's impossible not to hail the enduringly popular Invitation series, which moves into the remarkably intimate confines of the Gesù to once again thrill its ever- devoted fans: the menu includes three delicious courses from French trumpeter Eric Truffaz, who transports us to Bnarès, Paris and Mexico; followed by a serving of saxophone from the charismatic Joshua Redman, whose three-night run features the gourmet musicianship of artists including Aaron Parks and Joe Lovano; and a pièce de rsistance from Renaud Garcia Fons in three versions, first in flamenco mode with his bajo andaluz, then in duet with accordion and finally in quartet.
Special events Festival Pre-opening: Gary Burton Quartet Revisited with Pat Metheny, Steve Swallow and Antonio Sanchez, June 26, 7:30 p.m., Salle Wilfrid-Pelletier de la PdA
While groups combining major jazz names come and go, few possess the intimate musical bond of this historic quartet led by vibraphonist Gary Burton. This innovative jazzman, discovered by Montrealers in the '70s before the Festival had even been created, was a major force behind the ascension of jazz fusion and the jazz duo format so popular today. He welcomes bassist Steve Swallow and drummer Antonio Sanchez, as well as the musician who came to the fore in this fabulous quartet, guitarist Pat Metheny-not simply one of the most beloved of Festival veterans, but one of the most important players in the history of this Festival, honouring us once again with his presence in this exceptional 30th anniversary pre-opening concert!
Jazzing Flamenco, 8 p.m., Thtre du Nouveau Monde June 30 (6 p.m.), July 2 to 6 and 8 to 11 presented by Air France
It's a concert destined to re-amaze fans of Tango Flamenco, the previous coup from the same creative team! Born of a fervent desire to modernize Spanish classical dance by fusing different musical genres (jazz, blues, soul and flamenco), Jazzing Flamenco is a production boasting an absolutely unique style. Madrid choreographer Antonio Najarro brings originality and a breath of fresh air to the current dance scene. Making daring choices, he aims to liberate-and at the same time, reconcile-tradition and modernity in a skillful creation inspired by two inventive domains, two brilliant cultures, marrying the magic of flamenco to the elegance of jazz.
Battle of the Bands with the Glenn Miller Orchestra and the Harry James Orchestra, July 12, 3:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m., Salle Wilfrid Pelletier, PdA
After yet another phenomenally successful take on this historic concept last summer, get ready for the special closing-day event of the 30th edition featuring an all-new “Battle of the Bands"! The world's swinginest big band, the Glenn Miller Orchestra led by Larry O'Brien, matches up against a most worthy adversary making its first-ever visit to Montreal-despite their immense popularity-the Harry James Orchestra led by legendary trumpeter Fred Radke! Flashback to the great ballrooms of New York in the late '30s. In a concept revisited by the Festival, two legendary orchestras share the stage at the same time, battling it out for the honour of their incredible respective repertoires-no holds barred! And if some liberties are taken, if one orchestra poaches a signature tune or two- or even a musician!-from the other, it only adds to the fun! The program, series by series
Pleins feux General Motors series, 7:30 p.m., Salle Wilfrid-Pelletier, PdA
Start the Festival with a bang with the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra with Wynton Marsalis and very special guest, flamenco piano sensation Chano Dominguez and his quartet (June 30): a famous American trumpeter, one of the most accomplished Big Bands in jazz history, and a Spanish pianist who fuses jazz, swing, blues and flamenco with flair! We're thanking our lucky stars to have the piano, guitar and, above all, the voice of Jamie Cullum (July 1) at the Festival; the most popular British jazz artist of all time, he's scored music for Clint Eastwood! Opening act: Hilary Kole. This summer, Montreal soars to the suave trumpet of American virtuoso Chris Botti (July 2), in the jewel-like setting of an orchestra bringing its own polish to his glittering pop-jazz. Jazz singer, crooner, illustrious interpreter of the American popular songbook, Tony Bennett (July 3) is the man Frank Sinatra himself considered the greatest vocalist in the biz! Back after last year's star turn in the Invitation series, jazz icon Dave Brubeck (July 4) honours us with a celebration of the 50th anniversary of his legendary Time Out, treating us to reinterpretations of such classics as Take Five and Blue Rondo à la Turk. She has sung for Nelson Mandela and Quincy Jones; he's got a mantle full of Grammys. And we have the pleasure of enjoying A special evening featuring Al Jarreau and Molly Johnson (July 5), featuring gorgeous pop and soul, jazz ballads and two personalities whose warmth fills a room. Sonic adventurer Jeff Beck (July 6)-successor to Eric Clapton in the legendary Yardbirds alongside Jimmy Page, and hailed by Jimi Hendrix, a man forever exploring the musical unknown-thrills guitar and music fiends with his first ever performance in Montreal! Swing, jazz, classical, pop, all genres-and every language!-are shaken and stirred by Pink Martini (July 7 and 8), returning this time accompanied by a 51-piece orchestra! His rock-soul sound is one of a kind, his whisky-soul voice one in a million; every Joe Cocker (July 9) song is a force of nature that shakes you to the core! Slingin' guitar and surrounded by his bompin' orchestra, king of the Stray Cats Brian Setzer (July 10) finally struts back into Montreal with his tail in the air to drive all the kitties wild with his torrid swing and jump blues! Jackson Browne (July 11) gives us the scoop on his 12th solo album with his new show, Time The Conqueror… along with the timeless classics from four decades that made him a legend!
Les Grands concerts TD Canada Trust series, 9:30 p.m., Thtre Maisonneuve, PdA
The music of the Maria Schneider Jazz Orchestra (June 30, 8 p.m.) brings a majesty and magic that are impossible to categorize. Opening act: Julian Lage. It's a genuine pleasure to welcome the four virtuosos of the Monterey Quartet with Dave Holland, Gonzalo Rubalcaba, Chris Potter and Eric Harland, onstage together in a rare evening that absolutely cannot be missed! Pianist Chucho Valds (July 2) is not simply the Cuban ambassador of Latin jazz, he's one of the living legends of the genre-back for the first time in seven years! Welcome back this saxophonist, composer, high priest of spontaneity and musical freedom, and virtuoso improviser with over 40 years of musical exploration to his credit, at the head of his Wayne Shorter Quartet (July 3). Following on from the double album of the same name, Miles from India (July 4) is a musical encounter fusing Indian culture and the American jazz of Miles Davis, a legend among legends. Memorable moments are guaranteed by the palpable musical connection shared by the Branford Marsalis Quartet (July 5)-just ask anyone whose mind was blown by the saxophonist-composer and his group in 2006! The Ornette Coleman Quartet (July 9) grants us the long-awaited return of a 79-year-old jazz immortal, pioneer of free jazz, who hasn't visited the Festival since 1988! American rapper and actor Mos Def and hip hop-influenced pianist Robert Glasper (July 10) explore the fusion of two musical styles in which rhythm and groove combine wonderfully well. For the first time at the Festival, the Harlem Gospel Choir (July 11) lift us heavenward with a soul-firing spectacle!
Rythmes Bell series, 8:30 p.m., Mtropolis
Seven years after their sellout concert here, Kool & The Gang (July 1), the legendary R&B outfit, return for a celebration! Opening act: Stphane Moraille. It's an utterly exciting blues guitar double bill, starring the legendary Buddy Guy and, for the first time at the Festival, Susan Tedeschi (July 2). Get salsafied when La India (July 3) brings us the grooves of her new album, Soy Diferente. Opening act: Jesus El Niño. After last year's blowout success, welcome back torrid trio The Lost Fingers (July 4, exclusively at 6 p.m.), shaking up the summer with their gypsy-jazzified '80s classics. King Sunny Ade & Femi Kuti & The Positive Force (July 5) deliver a double bill sure to enter the annals of Afrobeat concerts in Montreal! It's an all-Africa evening with elegant Malian diva Oumou Sangare (July 8), sorely missed in these parts for a good 15 years, and Ivory Coast icon Alpha Blondy, international reggae titan often compared to the mighty Bob Marley. Burning Spear and Toots & The Maytals (July 9), bring two legendary reputations and Jamaican ambience for a concert that bears the reggae seal of greatness! One was described as the new Lauryn Hill by the great Wyclef, the other sang backup for Nelly Furtado: Estelle and Divine Brown (July 10) are the two newest stars in the R&B firmament. The music of Beirut (July 11) is a paradox in which the sounds of Eastern Europe, American pop, folk, accordion, and ukulele are harmoniously fused. Opening act: The Dodos.
En voix Rio Tinto Alcan series, 6 p.m., Thtre Maisonneuve, PdA
A genuine revelation at last summer's Festival, irresistibly charming American singer, guitarist and pianist Melody Gardot (July 1 and 2) was an instant unanimous hit for her incredible magnetism and exquisite jazz pop… and she's back with a new album! After a brief appearance in last summer's major Leonard Cohen tribute, Madeleine Peyroux (July 3 and 5) steps into Thtre Maisonneuve to treat us to her full repertoire of folk, country and jazz from the '30s. She's back with a successful new album, Night Lights-25,000 copies sold, a successful launch in Europe, and a 5-star rating from ejazznews.com: Susie Arioli (July 4), accompanied by excellent guitarist Jordan Officer! It all started right here at the Festival for Russian-born Canadian singer Sophie Milman, who launched Take Love Easy this year and won a Juno for Make Someone Happy. Undisputed master of the double bass-and this time, also a singer!-Charlie Haden moves the whole kin to Montreal for his Family and Friends show (July 8) featuring the Rambling Boy album, and extraordinary bluegrass project of traditional Midwestern music. Van der Graaf Generator (July 9): Peter Hammill and his pioneering progressive rock band conjure dark, complex lyrics and a spellbinding psychedelia. Festival darling Patricia Barber (July 10) lays her piano and deep, suave voice at the service of The Cole Porter Mix, her latest album dedicated to her idol. A past master in the art of reinventing jazz classics, sometimes with a swing or even pop accent, John Pizzarelli (July 11) brings in a septet of tuned-in musicians (Swing Seven) for a party that's sure to-yes-swing!
Primeur ARTV series, 7:30 p.m., Cinquième Salle, PdA
Angèle Dubeau breathes new life into Philip Glass-Portrait (June 30, July 1 and 2), her album featuring pieces from the fertile mind and career of the American master of minimalism. Zachary Richard (July 8 to 11), our favourite Cajun, delivers inspired music including songs from his first English album in 15 years, Last Kiss. This year, the Montreal Guitar Show series Guitarissimo shares the Cinquième Salle in PdA with the Primeur series, ringing out three evenings of pure six-string enchantment! Monte Mongomery (6 p.m.), Peppino D'Agostino (8 p.m.) and Russell Malone (10 p.m.) open things up on July 3 with the best the instrument has to offer! The following evening (July 4), guitar heroes Sylvain Provost (6 p.m.), Frank Vignola (8 p.m.) and Olivier Langevin (10 p.m.) power up their dream machines! And for a perfect closer (July 5), guitarists Don Alder (6 p.m.), Muriel and Valrie (8 p.m.) and Stanley Jordan (10 p.m.) make beautiful music!
Les Couleurs SAQ series, 7 p.m., Club Soda
Luciana Souza, grande dame of the bossa-nova and Romero Lubambo, extraordinary Brazilian guitarist, offer us their aurally warming Brazilian Duos (July 1)! Emilie Claire Barlow (July 2), the rising star of Canadian jazz, has been described as a sweeter Diana Krall; she's here with her latest album, Haven't We Met. Eleni Mandell (July 3), Quebec's favourite Californian, brings in her rockier, even dancier sound with Artificial Fire, released in February. Joyce (July 4), as complete an artist as you'll find anywhere, is a marvelous singer and peerless guitarist, considered the finest singer-songwriter in Brazil. In his first Festival visit, astonishing Australian guitarist John Butler (July 5) performs solo and also in duet with percussionist Nicky Bomba. By popular demand after their smash success at the MONTREAL HIGH LIGHTS Festival, the tide brings Pacifika (July 6) back in; their Asuncin album was named one of the Revelations of 2008 by Radio Canada Musique. A shot of Janis Joplin, a soupon of dith Piaf and a suggestion of Ella Fitzgerald: that's Trez Montcalm (July 8), a unique, original a timeless songstress, offering us Connection. The rhythmic jazz-rock, Afroboogie influences and irresistible personality of Malian guitarist and singer Vieux Farka Tour (July 9), worthy inheritor of his father's talents, will keep Club Soda dancing all night long! Spirited and brilliant Mexican muse Lila Downs (July 10)-who collaborated on the soundtrack for Frida-alights in Montreal with her sublime Shake Away. DeVotchKa's (July 11) American world-rock is a brilliant fusion of international sounds and American punk-folk roots... De-LightFul!
Invitation Hyatt Regency Montreal series, 6 p.m., Gesù - Centre de crativit presented in collaboration with Galaxie
The prestigious Invitation series finds an intimate home for this year's stellar run! French trumpeter Erik Truffaz opens things with three consecutive concerts bringing his triple- CD set Rendez-vous to life in a series of high-calibre musical encounters. He first disembarks in Benares (July 1), with vocals, piano, trumpet and tablas in Indrani and Apurba Mukherjee Indian salon along with Malcolm Braff. Next is a stopover in Mexico (July 2), accompanied by electronica artist Murcof and Talvin Singh, undisputed master of the tables and a virtuoso on the wheels of steel. Finally, we land in Paris (July 3) for inventive exchanges between the trumpet virtuoso, beatboxer Sly Johnson and incredible drummer and percussionist Philippe Garcia. It's the perfect jazz-rap final destination in this unique and transporting triptych.
Exceptional saxophonist Joshua Redman opens a three-night series with a gallery of musicians whose reputations are assured: emerging pianist Aaron Parks, Texan drummer Eric Harland and New Zealand bassist Matt Penman (July 4). Joe Lovano, Greg Hutchison, Reuben Rogers and Sam Yahel (July 5) make up a two-sax quintet for this second voyage through the Redman universe. Joshua Redman's Compass, with Brian Blade, Greg Hutchinson, Larry Grenadier and Reuben Rogers (July 6) guides us through a most daring concept: five musicians, two trios… with a saxophonist as the common denominator! (This concert in the Invitation series is specially presented in Thtre Maisonneuve, PdAm, at 9:30 p.m.)
Renaud Garcia-Fons confirmed his virtuoso standing last year: his five-string bass sings to the stroke of his bow! In Bajo Andaluz-Double Bass meets Flamenco Dancer (July 9), he takes the stage solo with his Spanish double bass, then welcomes young Sabrina Romero, Andalusian singer, dancer and percussionist from Lyons, for a fiery flamenco duet. The following day, he'll share the stage in a duet with Jean Louis Matinier (July 10), accordion virtuoso, with whom he shares a drive to destroy musical boundaries. In his third evening, Garcia Fons convenes a quartet of masters with David Venitucci, Kiko Ruiz and Pascal Rolando (July 11), as double bass, accordion, flamenco guitar and percussion trace the “transcultural” music of the newly-released Linea del Sur.
Jazz Beat TD Canada Trust series, 8 p.m., Thtre Jean-Duceppe, PdA. Presented by CBC Radio 2 (93.5 FM)
With his acoustic quartet (two guitars, an accordion and percussion), guitar legend Al di Meola toasts our 30th anniversary with a world music inspired as much by flamenco and tango as Cuban rhythms: welcome to New World Sinfonia (July 1). In a Festival debut, welcome Sadao Watanabe (July 2), one of the most renowned Japanese musicians of our era and the top jazz star in his native land. Eliane Elias (July 3) weaves musical tales with her latest album, Bossa Nova Stories, celebrating the 50th anniversary of the bossa nova. A beautiful evening awaits with alto saxophonist Kenny Garrett (July 4), with music from Sketches of MD as the pièce de rsistance. Piano master Kenny Werner leads a quintet featuring major players Antonio Sanchez (drums), David Sanchez (saxophone), Scott Colley (double bass) and Randy Brecker (trumpet) in a concert specially conceived for this summer (July 5). Remembering the Miles Davis Classic Kind of Blue @ 50, with Jimmy Cobb's So What Band featuring Wallace Roney, Vincent Herring, Javon Jackson, Larry Willis & Buster Williams (July 6) allows us to rediscover a landmark album with a journey down the avenues of jazz classics. Enjoy an exceptional evening with the Bill Frisell Quartet with Tony Scherr, Rudy Royston and Ron Miles (July 8). Pianist and composer Lorraine Desmarais (July 9) welcomes special guest Oliver Jones for a presentation of her latest album, Big Band. The Festival celebrates its 30th by inviting and honouring George Wein, producer, promoter, pianist and “father” of jazz festivals, along with his Newport All Stars with Lew Tabackin, Randy Sandke, Howard Alden, Peter Washington and Lewis Nash (July 10). Alain Caron & Franois Bourrassa (July 11), two major stars of the Montreal jazz scene, join forces for a jazz summit dedicated to virtuosity, a must-see tête- à-tête for all true music lovers!
Jazz d'ici La Presse series, 6 p.m., L'Astral
A jazz giant and worthy inheritor of Oscar Peterson's legacy, Oliver Jones (June 30) thrills us once more this summer-and hopefully again and again!-with special guest Ranee Lee. Julie Lamontagne and her trio (July 1), double bassist Dave Watts and drummer Richard Irwin, ask the musical question Now What, alongside brilliant saxophonist Donny McCaslin. Harmonca master Guy Blanger (July 2) once again fires up the Festival with his presence; without his harp, the Quebec blues scene would simply not have been the same these past three decades… Back in time for the 30th, Dan Thouin's jazz collective Le Large Ensemble (July 3) assembles a galaxy of stars including Yannick Rieu, Olivier Langevin and Jocelyn Tellier. The very versatile Andr Leroux (July 4), clarinetist and flautist, works in the jazz domain as much as in the classical and popular traditions; he brings us a new album, Corpus Callosum. A man for all seasons, Alain Bdard (founder of Effendi Records) presents Auguste (July 5), a first-rate quintet, the highly-acclaimed Bluesy Lunedi and remarkable French saxophonist Julien Lourau, making his first visit to the Festival. The biggest names in Montreal music, including Karen Young, Stphane Moraille, Jean Vanasse and Martial Mron, pay Tribute to val Manigat (July 6), the father of world music in Quebec, who passed away last summer. With a passion for music and a decided penchant for improv, Yannick Rieu unveils his Spectrum, with Rmi Jean Leblanc, Samuel Joly, Dan Thouin and Jocelyn Tellier (July 8). Prolific saxophonist Joel Miller (July 9) presents his 6th album, Tantramar, accompanied by versatile pianist, composer, producer and arranger Henry Hey. Inspired by the music of Eastern Europe, double bassist and Festival darling Michel Donato (July 10) heads in with Romanian accordionist Marin Nasturica and Georgian pianist Loran Djintcharadze. It's a family affair when the Toussaint brothers of Sacb-the most important jazz group in Mexico - join forces with excellent instrumentalist and Quebec favourite Jean-Pierre Zanella (July 11).
Jazz dans la nuit series, 10:30 p.m., Gesù - Centre de crativit. Though 33 years may separate them, pianist Stefano Bollani and trumpeter Enrico Rava (June 30) are musical and spiritual brothers; together, these two talented Italians have developed a rare musical connection! The Baptiste Trotignon Quintet featuring Mark Turner, Jeremy Pelt, Greg Hutchison and Matt Penman (July 1) roll in to demonstrate the universality of jazz. Wherever singer, double bassist and composer Esperanza Spalding (July 2) goes, the term “prodigy” is sure to follow; she's won over Prince, and even sung for President Obama. Illustrious improvisational saxophonist Lee Konitz finally returns to the Festival, accompanied by Minsarah, a creative and experimental American/German/Israeli trio (July 3). Brian Blade (July 4), singular jazz drummer with an original progressive style, visits us with longtime friends the Fellowship Band, with whom he recorded his 3rd album, Seasons of Change, in 2008. For this 30th edition of the Festival, the legendary Hadouk Trio (July 5) whisks us away on a cosmopolitan voyage perfumed by the East, illuminated by African colours, and flavoured bittersweetly by the Americas. French saxophonist Julien Lourau, Serbian pianist Bojan Zulfikarpa_iand Algerian drummer Karim Ziad are BoZiLo (July 6), creating jazz coloured by their native lands, grooving to funk, Balkan and North African accents. Japanese pianist Hiromi (July 8), who recorded the Duets album with Chick Corea, brings in her group Sonicbloom. Indian saxophonist Rudresh Mahanthappa travels new avenues in the future of jazz with his Indo-Pak Coalition project, artfully playing with improvised musical forms from South Asia (July 9). Pianist Bill Charlap and saxophonist Houston Person make for an exceptional duo with You Taught My Heart To Sing (July 10). American saxophonist Greg Osby (July 11) has improv in his blood and jazz in his DNA! He's the perfect closer for the Jazz dans la nuit series!
Concerts intimes Planète Jazz series, 7 p.m., Savoy
A must-see artist from the prestigious No Format label, Haitian-Canadian Mlissa Laveaux (July 1 and 2) weaves a rare intimacy and poetry with her songs, voice and guitar. After selling out concerts at the last two editions of the Festival, Montreal guitar virtuoso Jordan Officer (from July 3 to 5-July 4 exclusively at 8:30 p.m.), whom we discovered at the heart of Susie Arioli's band, launches a first solo album this year coloured by authentic jazz, blues and country influences. The gentle, fragile voice, folk songs and poetry of NEeMA (July 6) take equal inspiration from Amerindian culture, her Eqyptian/Lebanese roots, and the many countries she's visited. The romantic disillusionment of singer- songwriter Jason Bajada (July 8 and 9) rings out wonderfully well in the melodic folk-rock of his ear-and-eye-catching 3rd album, Loveshit. Banjo, clarinet, accordion and harmonica are just a few of the instruments behind the jazz, western, folk and roots melodies of dust-raising quartet Po'Girl (July 10 and 11).
Jazz au Club series, 9 p.m., L'Astral in collaboration with Galaxie When the Bad Plus (June 30, 11 p.m., and July 1, 9 p.m.) unleash their avant-garde pop- rock-electro jazz in a room this intimate, you're talking about a genuine event! After whetting our appetities with an all-too-brief visit last year, Dominick Farinacci (July 2), trumpet genius discovered at age 15 by Wynton Marsalis, returns with a show all his own… and all for us! Emerging young pianist and composer Aaron Parks (July 3) describes his music as spontaneous and cinematographic; with Invisible Cinema, his acoustic jazz gem, he feeds two passions for the price of one! Son of renowned bassist John Clayton, Gerald Clayton (July 4) has made his own name as a pianist; he'll be accompanied by Joe Sanders (double bass) and Justin Brown (drums). One thing is certain: those lucky enough to have caught Benin guitar poet Lionel Loueke (July 5) at the Montreal Guitar Show in 2007 will race to this new concert fusing African traditions, jazz and technical mastery! Whether on clarinet or saxophone, young Anat Cohen (July 6) amazes audiences with her compositions and covers, in jazz and world music. We've already fallen hard for the boogie-woogie of pianist-singer Michael Kaeshammer, rising star in English Canada (July 8)… and we want more! After a six-year absence, Brazilian musical voyager Bïa (July 9) unpacks her omnilingual folk and beckons the Festival in with a hushed voice! Charming and sexy Jill Barber (July 10) breathes exquisite new life into '40s-style jazz on a 4th album, Chances, written in collaboration with Ron Sexsmith. Making it look ridiculously easy, Somi (July 11) sings world-ly jazz-in a four-octave voice!-that has all the bona fides to make her a major jazz vocalist.
Les Nuits Heineken series, midnight, Club Soda With a second album ready to go, Montreal trip hop duo Elsiane (July 1) close out their Hybrid tour with an all-new show, probably its final local presentation! Brit musician Kevin Martin saves his best dub-electro-dancehall rhythms for musical project The Bug (July 2) and gets the dancefloor buzzing! Lyons novo-dub quintet High Tone (July 3), already a dozen years into their career, make a 3rd Festival appearance Festival. Get ready for a daring double set from electro-rock group Thunderheist (July 4): a live first half, followed by a full-on DJ climax! The instrumental post-rock of Pawa Up First (July 5) conjures a genuine cine-rock experience, an impeccable crossbreed of Kubrick, Hitchcock and Leone. The intimacy of Club Soda is the setting for the deep musical therapy of Montreal's most celebrated experimental rockers The Dears (July 6), treating us to an intense range of emotions! The Orb (July 8), UK electronica pioneers, inventors of ambient house, bring the house down for a debut Festival performance! Brilliant Montreal dream-rock band The Bell Orchestre (July 9) cause a sensation everywhere they go. In a second Festival appearance, mixer-composer Bonobo (July 10) rolls out a barrelful of monkeys: funky hip hop for the ears and booty, a full band for the complete live experience. It's a jungle in there! Internationally renowned DJ Misstress Barbara makes her fist all-out live performance accompanied by her two musicians, preceded by a stage-rockin' set from electro group Claass (July 11)!
The Croisière Jazz, 7 p.m., Cavalier Maxim boat, King Edward Quay, Old Port of Montreal Les Croisières AML serve up a five-course dinner show aboard the Cavalier Maxim from July 1-3 and 6-10. Accompanied by her quartet, Montreal diva Ranee Lee treats her guests to a menu of masterpieces from her repertoire of jazz standards and self-penned compositions. Departure at 6 p.m. from King Edward Quay in the Old Port of Montreal, returning at 11 p.m. Reservations required-call 514-842 3871 or 1-800-563 4643.
Info-Jazz Bell: indispensable information tools
Grouped together under the banner Info-Jazz Bell, information tools for the Festival are easily accessed by anyone who wants to know everything that's happening at the biggest jazz festival in the world. The general public is cordially invited to pick up the official Festival pamphlet, Info Jazz Bell Indoor Concerts Schedule or to call the Bell Info-Jazz Line at: Montreal Region: 514 871 1881. Long-distance calls made from within Canada or the United States (toll-free): 1 888 515 0515
Complete programming for free outdoor concerts and activities at the 30th edition of the Festival International de Jazz de Montreal will be announced this coming June 8.
For more information contact Braithwaite & Katz Communications.
