Galway Jazz Festival returns in pop-up format at Druid Theatre
The Galway Jazz Festival returns this Saturday, October 24. After 10 years of hard graft, the festival organisers were in danger of running out of steam, but into the breach stepped Headford musician Matthew Berrill, who assembled a small, dedicated team to deliver a one-day 'pop-up' festival.
Taking over The Mick Lally Theatre in Druid Lane, this year's offering will be a 14-hour marathon of performances, workshops, discussions, gourmet food, fine wine and craft beer.
First up is a workshop for local musicians given by the internationally acclaimed guitarist and composer Mike Nielsen.
That will be followed by a lunchtime performance featuring the lauded CEO Experiment, made up of pianist Leopoldo Osio, electric bassist Peter Erdei and drummer Cote Calmet. Exceptional musicianship and intuitive improvisation are the trademarks of this experimental trio who will be joined by Michael Buckley, a key figure in Ireland’s jazz scene, for a concert that promises to live long in the memory.
After lunch there will be a panel discussion about the state of jazz in Ireland, with speakers from The Arts Council, Bray Jazz Festival, The Irish Times and Galway City Council.
The music will then resume, with the main evening concert featuring Gwilym Simcock performing live on a Steinway piano.
The final show of this pop-up festival will focus on the guitar, with the Frank Kilkelly Trio and guests.
Tickets and info from druid.ie or 091 568660, or call Ciaran Ryan on 086 2528922.