If one thing is certain, it’s that we could all use some groovy feel-good music in our lives right now. Thanks to the pandemic, the 32nd annual Beaches Jazz Festival is taking place online from July 17 to 26.
This year’s festival will support the courageous frontline workers at the Michael Garron Hospital in the east end. All of the virtual performances and workshops can be streamed through the festival’s Facebook, YouTube channels, and website.
Jazz lovers can enjoy programming and performances from more than 300 Canadian and international artists. Online access to Beaches Jazz Festival is free but festivalgoers are encouraged to donate to the worthy cause.
These five virtual events are sure to have you performing fancy jazz dance moves in your living room.
Beaches Jazz Favourites
On Friday, July 17 at 7:30 pm, seven talented jazz artists will kick off the 10-day festival. You can expect to hear lively tunes from Eddie & Quincy Bullen, KC Roberts & the Live Revolution, Johannes Linstead, AIZA, AJ Croce, Dr. Draw and Tyler Shaw.
Groovin in the Living Room
The evening of Saturday, July 18 at 7:30 pm will be filled with sounds from jazz artists Roy Davis Jr, John Kong, DJ Yogi, DJ Quesquecest, Farbsie Funk and more.
Latin Carnival
On Sunday, July 19 at 6:30 pm, festival attendees will be dazzled by jazz performances with a Latin flair. The evening will start with a salsa instructional class, followed by Latin American rhythms played by William Vivanco, Rice & Mango, Yanni Borrel, Cucaclame Danzonera, Los Hijos De Tuta, Sol de Cuba, TheImbayakunas and Los Moralitos.
Sounds of Leslieville & Riverside Block Party
Stream this event on Thursday, July 23 at 7:30 pm and fall in love with the jazz melodies of Goodbye Honolulu, Toronto All-Star Big Band, Command Sisters, Alissa Vox Raw and many more.
Streetfest Favourites
If you missed some of the previous events, be sure to catch Streetfest Favourites since the show features several of the musicians who played earlier in the festival. Artists taking the virtual stage include Stacey Renee, The Free Label and The Sidewalk Crusaders – to name a few.
To donate to the Michael Garron Hospital Foundation, click here. Follow Beaches Jazz Festival on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter for updates.
