City of Derry Jazz Festival swings into action for May Bank holiday

A local hotel was the venue and it reverberated to the sound of some the richly diverse range of acts that will be playing during the festival, which will take place over the May Day Holiday weekend – Thursday, April 29 to Monday, May 3.

The big crowd in attendance were entertained Paul McIntyre Duo on piano and bass, The Foyle College Jazz Ensemble, and the Mirenda Rosenberg Band.

The night was expertly compered by radio personality Frank Galligan and climax of the evening came from Derry Jazz Quartet with guest Gay McIntyre, John Trotter & George Hasson with Mirenda Rosenberg making a reappearance as a special guest vocalist.

Londonderry's love of all things Jazz will be proudly on display during the May Bank Holiday weekend, as the city's historic walls reverberate to some of the best acts and artists in the world

Whether grooving to world renowned acts like former Rolling Stone Bill Wyman and the Rhythm Kings, or getting down with some home grown talent like the Derry Jazz Quartet, the family friendly festival offers something for everyone.

A packed programme sees more than 75 venues hosting over 300 musicians in the city for Northern Ireland's event of the year as awarded by NITB.

Rory Sheridan, spokesperson for Diageo/Guinness, said they are delighted once again to involved in the City of Derry Jazz and Big Band Festival: "The Festival is so successful and has such a wonderful reputation that we are always proud to be a part of it. The Guinness Free Jazz Trail is now established as an essential part of the Festival bringing great musicians and fantastic music to venues in Derry for free."

It's no surprise to regular visitors to the Jazz Festival, that Derry-Londonderry is in the running to become the UK's City of Culture 2013 and the festival is the perfect opportunity for people visiting the city to enjoy a unique cultural experience.

This year sees yet another fantastic line-up for the four day music-fest, which is celebrating its ninth birthday in style.

With so much on offer in Londonderry this May Bank Holiday weekend, make sure you don't miss out on what looks set to be the greatest Jazz and Big Band Festival yet!

A full programme is available at the Tourist Information Centre, Derry City Council Offices, at venues throughout the city.

This festival is arranged for you by Derry City Council in partnership with DCAL/NITB's Major Events Fund and Diageo/Guinness.

For further information visit www.cityofderryjazzfestival.com or follow festival updates on the City of Culture2013 Facebook site.