Jazz is officially 100 years old.
On February 26th 1917 the first ever jazz album, ‘Livery Stable Blues’, was released. With this in mind, 2017 should be a year of reflection on the last century’s musical accomplishments, especially achievements as risk-taking, dynamic and new as jazz. Who could have ever predicted that the ‘Livery Stable Blues’ would start a whole movement of music that would become one of the most influential sounds of the 20th century?
To celebrate this special year in jazz history, why don’t you take yourself down to the Cheltenham Jazz Festival for six days of jazz wonder? Between the 26th April to the 1st of May, Cheltenham will be ringing with some of the most influential names in modern jazz.
Where is it?
Cheltenham Jazz Festival is located in Cheltenham, which is on the edge of the Cotswolds in the South-West region of England. This beautiful scenic part of England is the perfect location to get away from it all and listen to some equally beautiful jazz.
When is it?
26th April – 1st May 2017
Who’s in it?
This year’s lineup includes: Laura Mvula, Marcus King Band, Dee Dee Bridgewater, Kansas Smitty’s House Band Residency, Jack Savoretti, Valerie June, Marius Neset, Will Young, Lilli Unwin, The Necks – and the list goes on!
With Jamie Cullum as Artistic Curator of the event, expect nothing less than the best names in jazz playing at this year’s Cheltenham’s Jazz Festival 2017.
What to wear?
Feel inspired by the era that birthed jazz’s takeover of the mainstream, and don some 1920s gear to the Cheltenham Jazz Festival this year. Think slick, sharp and sophisticated. Crisp suits with waistcoats, or long flapper style party dresses and dark lipstick would be the best assembles to pay homage to the start of jazz.
Like with any festival, make sure you are comfortable! You will be up on your feet for a long time during this six day jazz extravaganza so make sure you invest in some well-made men’s comfort shoes from somewhere like Mr Shoes, or some stylish flats to complement your jazz inspired dolly-bird look.
Jazz is all about freedom of expression, so wear whatever you feel represents your true colours and enjoy this opportunity to dance, be free and be merry.
Jazz in the Gardens
Witness some of the best emerging jazz artists around at the Montpellier Gardens. At Montpellier Gardens, there’s not only a wealth of free outdoor music gigs available but there are also lots of fun activities to do with the whole family, as well as countless food and drink outlets!
If you are planning on bringing the family to this year’s Cheltenham Jazz Festival, there is a whole tent dedicated to providing craft activities and workshops that all the family can take part in. What could be better?
Food and Drink
There are beer gardens, wine kitchens and several on site festival bars only moments away from the main stages that will quench your thirst. And, in regards to food, there is a Pizza Express as well as several other food markets and outlets provided at the Montpellier Gardens that will supply visitors with a vast range of different cuisines and delicacies.
Free Stage
There are several opportunities to indulge in some free jazz, including the Free Stage available at this year’s Cheltenham Jazz Festival. Explore the Montpellier Gardens for free outdoor gigs, and make sure to explore the rest of the town for even more free jazz events.
How to find out more?
For more information just visit their website at http://www.cheltenhamfestivals.com/jazz/
Or just follow the #cheltjazzfest hashtag online for the hottest news about Cheltenham Jazz Festival.
