EFG London Jazz Festival 2018

One of the most awaited festivals in the city of London is the EFG London Jazz Festival. This year, it runs from November 16, Friday to November 25, Sunday. There are many events happening during this festival. Visitors and jazz fans can choose from the expanding line-up of shows and performances to celebrate jazz music. Check in at any  North London hotels with parking during the festival and head out to various venues to celebrate jazz music.

About the Jazz Festival

This is the 26^th year that the city is celebrating the Jazz Festival. It is a 10-day festival with events happening in 60 different venues across the city. There are 2,500 artists performing in different venues. There are over 250 shows in the best arts centers and concert halls in London. This includes the Royal Albert Hall, the Southbank Centre, the 606 Club, the Artsdepot, Cadogan Hall, Ronnie Scott’s, Wigmore Hall, Rich Mix Centre, Kings Place, Barbican Centre, and The Forge. 

One of the many highlights of the festival is the performance by Madeleine Peyroux happening at the Royal Festival Hall. On the last night of the festival, Bill Laurance collaborates with the WDR Big Band. Laurance is the brilliant pianist behind the Grammy Award-winning Snarky Puppy. The WDR Big Band is led by Bob Mintzer.

Young bands will perform as well for the festival, along with many international legends. Outstanding collaborations such as the one with Laurance and WDR Big Band will be shown in various shows. Emerging British jazz stars will also be performing.

You can also read: Interesting facts about London Bridge

Ticket prices

Everyone is invited to join the city in this annual celebration of one of the best music festivals in the world. Ticket prices vary among the shows, events and performances. Generally, tickets range from £10 to £40. The opening gala is at £49.50.

Tickets are available online such as from See Tickets and Ticketmaster UK. Some events may also have tickets right at the gate on the event itself.

Who will be performing?

The list of performances is expanding. So, you must book a stay at an affordable hotel near Wembley Stadium in advance. There will be an inspiring tribute to the life and works of jazz legend Hugh Masekela. Performers at the tribute include Masekela’s full band, a stellar vocalist cast and a top class brass section. 

Sarah-Jane Morris will give her own version of John Martyn’s opus.

A welcome for another legend will be given to Archie Shepp for his return to the festival. Shepp was a key force in jazz evolution in the modern era. His event is called Art Sings and Spirituals. It will showcase extraordinary talents with the likes of Carleen Anderson and Amina Claudine Myers. 

The event Windrush: A Celebration is headed by Anthony Joseph. He will be rounding up an impressive line-up of artists to celebrate Caribbean spirit. Performers for this event include rhythm poet Brother Resistance, legendary artist Calypso Rose and Jason Yarde. 

Returning to the festival is Kandace Springs. She had a successful sold-out show in EFG London Jazz Festival two years ago. Fans will once again hear her voice, dubbed by Prince as “a voice that could melt snow”. 

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