Here’s to 30

Ghost-Note at the Cube, June 21 2018

Photo by Joe Oczerklewicz

Photo by Simeon Rusnak

Producing a music festival is a wonderful and strange undertaking.

Working on a major summer event is endlessly surprising and inspiring and gives us VIP seats to some incredible live music. Every year, the festival introduces me to my new favourite artist whether it’s a new touring act or a familiar local who’s made an exciting artistic left turn. It really never gets old. On the flip side, I’m truly surprised at the amount of time we spend discussing the placement, maintenance and necessary supplies of the Old Market Square porta potties. It’s an adventure.

Next June, we will launch the 30th jazz festival. Over the past year, the staff and board have been working hard on new projects that will take Jazz Winnipeg into an exciting new era. The first festival announcement happens in early 2019. Stay tuned for more big things in the following months.

A project I can tell you about now is Alleyways. Coming to you early next year, Alleyways is Jazz Winnipeg’s blog & podcast, designed to engage and inform members of the jazz community, and welcome curious fans into the fold. It will be a fun and accessible way to connect with the music and the scene.

As we close out another amazing year, I want to say thank you to all of you for the countless ways you’ve supported us, encouraged us and made everything possible. To everyone who attended a show and cheered your heads off; all those who generously donated time, money and expertise; and every artist who shared their music with us - we can’t say thank you enough.

Have a fabulous holiday season. See you in 2019!

- Lynne Stefanchuk, Jazz Winnipeg Executive Director

Tune-Yards at the Garrick Centre, June 22 2018

Photo by Travis Ross