KIRKCUDBRIGHT JAZZ FESTIVAL
A Celebration of Trad New Orleans, Dixieland and Swing Jazz in South West Scotland.
12TH KIRKCUDBRIGHT JAZZ FESTIVAL
11, 12, 13 and 14 June 2009
Of late, it has become apparent through statistics that some British traditional jazz fetivals are becoming less well attended than in past years. One thought is that, as time marches on, the followers of the style of jazz presented are diminishing through ill-health or demise.
Another reason however is that as more festivals and jazz themed holidays occur, more choice is on hand. It is therefore important for people to be discerning when choosing which festivals to attend, bearing in mind the increasing cost of travel and general expense.
The Kirkcudbright Jazz Festival committee, being aware of all these facts, is making sure once more that each festival is more attractive than the last. This has been proved by the increase in attendance each year.
Held from 11th to 14th June 2009, it is a great time to visit this least populated area of Dumfries and Galloway, only an hour's drive north of Carlisle, It isknown as "the artists' town" because, like St Ives in Cornwall, it has that special kind of light, particularly at sunset, which attracted and continues to attract many successful artists to live and work in the region.
Many historical houses ar around the old harbour. It is also an ideal place to move on from and explore more of the beauties of Scotland at this time of year, where it is still light at midnight.
The bands appearing offer enough variety to please all tastes. You can hear Trad bands, Revivalist style New Orleans bands,Ragtime and early Swing, Classic Jazz, Dixieland, Rhythm and Blues and even a hit of Country and Western. If you don't understand the terminology it does't matter, it's the sound that's important.
Come and experience life in this unspoiled corner of Scotland. It's not just music that belongs in a past tradition.
Dave Donohoe.
