Tomorrow for the first time Kelham Jazz Festival hopes to celebrate live jazz and bring together bold new talent and established artists in the multi-venue event.
The festival will be showcasing 90% Northern artists and take place from 3pm-3am on Saturday 21 March
Kent Roach, musician and educator as well as a founding member of band Montuno is an active supporter of Footprints Jazz Collective and will be performing as well as putting on a workshop tomorrow.
He said: ”There’s a real jazz renaissance in Sheffield.
“Any kind of music that generates positive energy is great, audiences are progressive, tolerant and resistant to racism and misogyny.”
The festival is supported by Footprints Jazz Collective which supports upcoming artists in Sheffield by giving them mentorship, rehearsal space as well as opportunities.
”I’ve been a supporter and collaborating with footprints for a few years now. I thought it was a great idea for Sheffield and am more than happy to contribute and support it,” Kent said.
The venues include Peddler, Yellow Arch Studios, Tool Makers Brewery, Alder, Neepsend Social, Shakespeares, Church, Factory Floor and The Harlequin.
Kent added: “Supporting live music it’s important, with venues closing down anything generating interest I support 100%.
”The timing for Sheffield to have a festival like this couldn’t be better. All venues are independent and locally owned, it’s great to see support.”
Luke Una and TC & The Groove Family will be headlining the event.
Workshops will also be taking place alongside performing live music and people of all ability are encouraged to join in.
Sarah Hannigan is putting on an Improvisation Workshop and aims to give a safe space to female and LGBT performance.
Kent will be putting on a Percussion Workshop that focuses on Afro-Cuban Brazilian Latin Jazz percussion. Drums will be provided although people are also welcome to bring their own and tips and techniques will be shared.
Kelham Island is also surrounded by a large number of cafes, restaurants, pubs and bars to supply food and drinks throughout the festival.
If successful there’s hopes this festival will become a regular event for Sheffield.
Tickets will be available to buy on the day at the box office where pre-bought tickets can also be collected.
