Lancaster Jazz Festival

Lancaster Jazz Festival is returning with another exciting programme for 2025, across five days in September, Lancaster’s venues and streets will host gigs from the finest UK artists alongside exceptional local and community talent. It promises a diverse and unforgettable experience for all.

The festival will be taking over various city centre venues, offering a dynamic mix of free and ticketed events which ensures that the festival and jazz music remains accessible for all budgets. Kanteena will host a lively weekend of free gigs, perfect for soaking up the atmosphere and discovering new favourites. Intimate ticketed performances by leading artists will grace the beautiful Moor Space at The Dukes theatre and Atkinson’s The Hall, while the historic Priory Church hosts the impressive Mark Kavuma, recipient of the recent Jazz FM Awards’ Instrumentalist of the Year. 

A new partnership with Tomorrow’s Warriors kicks off the festival, with a double bill of Maddy Coombs and Donovan Haffner, as part of the incredible initiative ‘Warriors Rise’ tour.

Offering a celebration of fresh sounds and artistic development Executive Producer Dave Shooter says, "Once again we were blown away by the quality of the applications for this year's festival. The program boasts a powerful line-up, showcasing the best of the UK scene alongside a strong focus on community engagement."

Artist-in-residence James Mainwaring will feature throughout the festival, culminating in a performance with his project ‘The Exu’ on Sunday afternoon closing out the Kanteena stage.

Lancaster Jazz Festival is dedicated to supporting musicians and is thrilled to be able to offer an opportunity for emerging and established musicians to benefit from the Inspire Artist Day. This free event is in collaboration with Jazz North and will provide speakers, advice and workshops. With the chance to hear from industry experts about their practice and careers, ask questions and make connections to this day is a one of a kind chance for musicians to develop their careers.

Alongside the gigs and artist opportunities the festival will enhance the already culturally active local scene with a host of community music ensembles, including a collaboration between local favourites Off The Rails and Elbow Room, plus a special edition of the Lancaster Jazz Jam. Firmly based in the local community, this jam is very inclusive and caters for all abilities. So, everyone is welcome to come along and take part or just sit back and listen. Plus, The Innovation Hub at The Gregson, will host a packed weekend of activity, offering space for people to drop in and take part in workshops, impromptu performances, art, dance, walking tours and more.

Festival Director, Lucy Woolley said, “It’s an incredible year for Lancaster Jazz Festival, we’re excited to welcome new partnerships, new artists and some festival favourites. The programme captures a real breadth of artists from across the UK and we’re looking forward to welcoming them to Lancaster.”

Lancaster Jazz Festival extends its gratitude to funding and support from Arts Council England, UKSPF, Groundswell, Atkinson’s Coffee Roasters, Lancaster BID, Tomorrow’s Warriors, Jazz North and Black Lives in Music. The festival goes beyond just entertainment; they are a creative development company, actively supporting artists year-round. This dedication ensures a vibrant future for jazz in Lancaster and beyond.

To view the full programme, buy tickets or for more information visit: www.lancasterjazz.com