By Tim Reinert
While the saying goes that there’s no such thing as a free lunch, Coastal Jazz proves otherwise by offering a variety of free jazz concerts at this year’s Vancouver International Jazz Festival. In fact, there are plenty to choose from!
Artist Talks at Western Front
The Western Front has been a cherished venue for many of my favorite Jazz Festival experiences, particularly during the late 1990s. This year, the festival returns with a series of complimentary Artist Talks open to the public. Attendees can look forward to discussions featuring artists-in-residence Sakina Abdou and Shahzad Ismaily, alongside conversations with Hand to Earth and DK O Show. Discover what inspires some of your favorite musicians!
New Improviser’s Studio at Western Front
This year’s Jazz Festival features an exciting addition: the New Improviser’s Studio, a week-long educational program designed for 12 young musicians aged 17 to 24, regardless of their musical backgrounds. Led by artist-in-residence Shahzad Ismaily, the studio will also include talented guests such as Sakina Abdou, Matthew Ariaratnam, Meredith Bates, Claire Devlin, Aviva Endean, Mili Hong, Sunny Kim, and Peggy Lee. The program culminates on June 28th with a special improvised performance showcasing this year’s participants at Western Front.
Free Workshops at Tom Lee Music Hall
I vividly remember my first Jazz Festival workshop, held at the original Tom Lee Music Hall on Granville Street back in 1996, featuring the guitarist Russel Malone. Even as a non-guitarist, it was a privilege to witness such talent up close. Coastal Jazz continues this tradition by hosting workshops at each festival, and this year’s lineup includes notable artists like Mary Ancheta, Tyson Naylor, DJ O Show, Sam Wilson, and David Stackenas, who will share insights into their craft at Tom Lee.
Sounds of Youth Stage
One of the standout features of the festival’s free programming in recent years has been the Sounds of Youth initiative, a two-day event on Robson Street during the festival’s opening weekend. This year promises the same excitement, with performances from some of the best high school Big Bands in the province, plus a special appearance by the UBC Jazz Ensemble. It’s an excellent opportunity to glimpse the future stars of Frankie’s and Tyrant Studios!
For more insights from Tim, be sure to listen to his Infidels Jazz podcast episode.
