Wellington Jazz Festival

words by ben stephens

Louis Armstrong was once quoted to have said:

‘Hot can be cool & cool can be hot & each can be both. But hot or cool man, Jazz is Jazz.’

Damn, he was so right. Not a word spoken since has come close to describing the jazz world. Well maybe, but those above do it in such a style that makes the reader a little weak at the knees huh?

When you combine the likes of QT Museum Wellington and the magic that the Wellington Jazz Festival, what is created is a thing of beauty.

Five wonderful days dedicated to the art of Jazz are about to take of the windy city from June 7 – 11. There are over hundred artists in town to impart some of those relaxed beats all over the city making June one of the hottest months on record… for Jazz fans, the weather is cooling down, down.

Add Bill Frisell to your highlight list, as this will be the Guitar Genius’s first show in New Zealand and something not to be missed. Playing with Bond and Godfather tunes, Frisell will be opening the Jazz Fest is awesome style.

A huge draw card for us here at QT is the Saturday night set from the progressive jazz makers from The Comet is Coming. Bringing a super fresh, electronic jazz vibe to the festival, a welcomed addition from those who are new to the genre.

Bach Beat is another highlight, with Michael Houston & The Rodger Fox Big Band taking to the stage to take on some of the classical world, fused together with jazz… what a duo.

Lastly, during the festival, QT Museum Wellington is very happy to be playing host to a Sips & Sounds venue. Come and join us for a glass of pinot and a cheese platter featuring local delicacies anytime during the festival.

Wellington Jazz Festival takes over from June 7 – 11 more details HERE