The 13th edition of the Limerick Jazz Festival is set to captivate audiences from the 26th to the 29th of September, with four exciting nights of live jazz in the heart of Limerick. This festival, long established as a highlight in Ireland's jazz calendar, continues to showcase the diversity, creativity, and global reach of jazz music.
Since its inception, the Limerick Jazz Festival has brought a wide range of talent to the city, from local artists to renowned international performers. This year's lineup is no exception, featuring acts from Timisoara, Romania to North Devon, UK; Statesville, North Carolina to Warrington, Northern Ireland; Rimavská Sobota, Slovakia to Limerick City. The festival is known for its broad scope, not only in geography but in style, offering something for everyone while embracing the full spectrum of jazz. The 2024 program also highlights the multi-generational nature of the jazz world, welcoming both well-established figures and fresh, emerging talents.
Kicking off on Thursday night, the festival opens with a thrilling double bill. Romanian singer Aleka Potinga will take the stage to perform music from her 2024 EP Romania: Songs of Love and Longing. Her distinctive style combines Romanian folk traditions with jazz and rock elements, creating a cosmopolitan blend that reflects her musical journey across borders. Following her performance, Chris Guilfoyle’s Oxygen Thief trio, known for their fusion of jazz, math rock, and electronica, will continue the evening. Aleka will also join the trio for a unique collaboration, further emphasizing the international and genre-blurring spirit of the night.
Returning to Limerick is acclaimed American saxophonist and composer Benjamin Boone. Boone, who was a U.S. Fulbright Scholar at the University of Limerick’s Irish World Academy of Music during 2022-2023, has deep connections with the local music scene. During his time in Limerick, he recorded the album Confluence, which features interpretations of traditional Irish music, including “She Moved Through the Fair” and “On the Banks of the Shannon.” His performance will feature collaborations with local talents such as John Daly, Joe O’Callaghan, Dan Bodwell, and JaYne, making this one of the festival’s most anticipated events.
Making her Limerick debut is London-based saxophonist and composer Emma Rawicz. Already recognized as one of jazz’s rising stars, Rawicz has earned accolades for her work across various ensembles, from her touring quartet to her Jazz Orchestra. Her performance promises to bring fresh energy to the festival as she showcases her wide-ranging talents.
Saturday afternoon will see the return of the popular Jazz Trail, which turns the streets of Limerick’s City Centre into a live music hotspot. The Jazz Trail will feature a variety of performances, including Steve’s Big Band and smaller groups drawn from the Limerick Jazz Workshop. This event highlights the strength of the local jazz scene and reflects the continued growth and development of jazz in the region.
The festival will close on Sunday afternoon at Dolan’s with another double bill. Benjamin Boone will take the stage once more with his ensemble for another captivating performance, followed by the much-anticipated return of internationally acclaimed guitarist Andreas Varady and his Trio. Although still young, Varady has a long history with Limerick, having been part of the Limerick Jazz Workshop during his formative years before his career took off on the global stage. His return to the city is expected to be a fitting conclusion to the festival, bringing a sense of homecoming and celebration.
The 2024 Limerick Jazz Festival offers four days of extraordinary live music, showcasing the richness and diversity of jazz from around the world. For jazz lovers, it’s an event not to be missed, blending tradition and innovation in a festival that continues to highlight the global resonance of this genre.
Event links:
Thursday 26th - Aleka and Oxygen Thief - Dolan's - 20:00
Friday 27th - Benjamin Boone Confluence Band - Dolan's – 20:00
Friday 27th - Emma Rawicz Quartet UK - The Belltable Arts Centre – 22:00
Saturday 28th - Brazilian Music Night with Kasia Eliasz & Her Band - Dolan's - 21:00
Sunday 29th - Andreas Varady Trio + Benjamin Boone's Confluence Quintet - Dolan's - 15:00
Connect with Limerick Jazz Festival
Website: limerickjazz.com
Facebook: @LimerickJazzFestival
X: @Limerick_Jazz
Instagram: @limerickjazz
YouTube: @limerickjazzfestival2710
