Your Guide to the Melbourne International Jazz Festival

The Melbourne International Jazz Festival (MIJF) is back for its 21^st year, celebrating with a jam-packed line up featuring over 400 international and local artists. This year, the 10-day festival focuses on the wide influence jazz has on various musical genres around the world, with an eclectic program showcasing the myriad types of jazz in all its traditional and loose forms, funk, soul, hip-hop and electronica.

With over 100 events in twenty-six sites in and around Melbourne, MIJF presents some truly iconic artists as well as emerging talent. “We are really excited to showcase some of the future directions of this vital and ever-evolving art form,” says Festival Artistic Director, Michael Tortoni.

The Festival also offers family-friendly performances such as lunchtime concerts and artist workshops. Venues include the majestic Melbourne Recital Centre and the lawn of the State Library, as well as cosy jazz clubs like Paris Cat Jazz Club and The Jazzlab.

International highlights include funk legend and iconic saxophonist Maceo Parker, paying tribute to his idol Ray Charles. Virtuosic percussionist Terri Lyne Carrington will debut her remarkable new project Social Science, exploring themes of freedom, racism, sexism and multiculturalism.

Long time New York resident and now Melbourne-based pianist Barney McAll will premiere two stunning works: Trilogy of Cycles at Birrarung Marr’s Federation Bells and Sweet Sweet Spirit, featuring music by the great gospel composer Doris Akers. Make sure to check out the Festival’s signature Late Night Jam sessions and lose yourself in the spontaneity and excitement of improvised jazz.

If you’re just not sure which acts to pick from the comprehensive program, head to the MIJF website and do the ‘What Type Of Jazz Are You?’ quiz. Answer a few quick questions and receive a list of artists chosen just for you.

The Melbourne International Jazz Festival features a diverse mix of incredible artists and electrifying events. Soak up some smooth tunes or dance the night away with this year’s captivating line up.