Derry Is The Perfect Pitch For Jazz And Big Band Festival

Thursday, 26 April 2007

Northern Ireland’s largest Jazz festival hits a high note this year with expected record attendance at the 6th annual City of Derry Jazz and Big Band Festival takes place in the city from Thursday 03 – Sunday 06 May. The crème of jazz and swing are set to descend on the city with some of the best sounds to be found anywhere in the world promising an action packed and fun Bank Holiday weekend.

2007 festival highlights feature the Glenn Miller Orchestra, the unique voice of Ruby Turner – the true diva of soul and gospel; the funky moves of The Jazz Cotech Dancers and the exquisite sound of Bodil Niska, Norway’s premier saxophonist. Other acts promising to prove a big hit during the festival are the Extraordinaires, the Jive Aces, Polly Gibbons, and King Pleasure and the Biscuit Boys, The Bamboos well as Les Swingin’ Lovers, (Paris); Greggi G and the Crazy Gang. The best of Derry jazz performers such as Claire Sproule and Gay McIntyre, will also be performing at the festival.

Whether it’s the Sunday 06th Finale events or a lunchtime stop over the weekend there’s something for all ages and tastes at the festival. Special accommodation rates are available throughout the weekend with bed and breakfast and an evening meal from £50 per person per night. Further information can be obtained by contacting the Derry Visitor and Convention Bureau on 028 71263511.

Speaking ahead of the festival to the 6th City of Derry Jazz and Big Band Festival, the festival organiser Johnny Murray said he was looking forward to the festival.

“With over 150 performances throughout the four-day event it promises to be a very special occasion for music lovers everyone. From intimate concerts to thriving music gigs, it’s an event not to be missed”.

The Guinness® Free Jazz Trail is set to light up the city throughout the weekend. Now a core element of the Jazz Festival, the Trail will bring some of the finest musicians in the world to play in some unique settings around Derry, all for free! And BBC Radio Ulster and Foyle have partnered this music extravaganza with competitions, recorded live shows and overall support to make it a great success!!

So don’t miss a beat and join us at the 06th City of Derry Jazz and Big Band Festival 03rd – 06th May 2007. Visit www.cityofderryjazzfestival.com for a full programme.

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