We are delighted to announce that Kildare Jazz Festival will return in April 2025!

Join us for a music packed weekend featuring national and international artists as we embark on a thrilling ride through the nuances of jazz.

Tadhg Leahy is an Irish composer, instrumentalist, bandleader and one of the foremost session guitarists in Ireland. Performing and recording for multiple different Irish artists while also performing and recording music under his own name, writing instrumental and vocal music in a variety of genres.

A successor to the celebrated CEO Experiment, the band co-led by Leopoldo Osio that brought a refreshing new voice to the Irish music scene nearly a decade ago and collaborated with influential American guitarist Kurt Rosenwinkel at the peak of their work, pianist and composer Leopoldo Osio has gathered an impressive ensemble of musicians from around the world – Argentinian saxophonist Gianni Gagliardi, Brazilian drummer Andre Antunes, his long-time collaborator Peter Erdei from Hungary on bass, and the exceptionally talented Cork-based trombonist Paul Dunlea for this special occasion.

No experience needed – drums provided!

Join Tom Quinn for an exciting drumming workshop where you can explore the power of rhythm, regardless of your experience level. Tom will provide all the drums, and whether you’re a complete beginner or have some drumming experience, you’ll be guided through fun, accessible rhythms that encourage creativity and connection.

Chilean-Venezuelan guitarist and composer, Orlando Molina, unites with Mexican singer Alicia Garcia in a captivating exploration of traditional Latin American music.

Their collaboration seamlessly intertwines the authenticity of Latin American tunes with subtle jazz influences, resulting in a performance that is both emotionally resonant and artistically sophisticated. Orlando and Alicia present a musical experience that transcends borders, encouraging listeners to embrace the cultural richness stemming from the vibrant landscapes of Mexico, Venezuela, Cuba, and other corners of South America.

The duo warmly welcomes you to accompany them on a lyrical journey, where the timeless beauty of Latin American melodies and rhythms takes centre stage, inviting all to revel in the magic of their shared musical heritage.

This is a free, drop-in event and takes place in the Foyer at Riverbank Arts Centre.

Conor Guilfoyle is a highly sought-after drummer and educator known for his innovative approach to jazz rhythm. With an extensive career that includes collaborations with renowned musicians like John Abercrombie, Joe Lovano, and Kenny Werner, Conor has established himself as a leading figure in jazz drumming.

Music Network presents rising star of the international music scene Plínio Fernandes.

Born and raised in São Paulo, Plínio blends the tradition of classical guitar with the rich, rhythmic vibrancy of Brazilian folk music. Known for his mesmerising performances and versatility, his playing ranges from the delicate works of Bach to the exuberance of Brazilian melodies, delivering each with heart and expressive brilliance.

Camille Bertault and David Helbock are two of the most jaw-droppingly talented members of the cohort of European jazz musicians currently in their mid-thirties. Their journeys in improvised music are always adventurous, playful and exciting. She is the rising star of French vocal jazz. He, Austrian-born, is one of the most fascinating pianists on the scene.

Afro-Brazilian Dance Workshop with Alessandra Azevedo No experience needed – just bring your energy! Join Alessandra Azevedo, Ireland’s leading Afro-Brazilian dancer and the first woman to teach Capoeira in the country, for an empowering and joyful exploration of Afro-Brazilian dance. Discover vibrant rhythms and dynamic movements inspired by the rich traditions of Brazil’s indigenous and African heritage.

Ta Tum Tum! and Ceol Connected are teaming up for a unique collaboration at the Kildare Jazz Festival, blending the vibrant rhythms of Brazilian culture with the rich traditions of Irish music.

Formed out of Music Generation Kildare’s Teen Spirit youth music ensemble programme at Riverbank Arts Centre, the young musicians explore performance, repertoire and ensemble musicianship each month, mentored by members of MGK’s Musician Educator team. They have presented a variety of performances in 2024, including at Riverbank, SubSounds Youth Music Festival, and as part of Garage Land’s recent showcase of youth music at The National Concert Hall, Dublin.

Uilleann Piper Mark Redmond is joined by the Chris Colloton Trio for a night of jazz/trad fusion. Taking inspiration from groups such as Desiseal and Horslips, this ensemble arranges traditional Irish tunes with a modern, jazz influence, bringing a unique energy and atmosphere to the music.

Mieko Miyazaki and Franck Wolf form a rare and original duo, their music blending the elegant charm of the ‘koto,’ a half tube zither that is Japan’s national instrument, with the melodic lines of Wolf’s clarinet and saxophone.

Zoé Basha is a musician, composer and carpenter, of French and American origins.

Based between Ireland and the traveling life for over a decade, Zoé blends traditional singing with jazz and blues. Her original pieces and traditional songs explore the crossover between the sway of Appalachian mountain songs, the fervour and solemn ornamentation of Irish traditional songs, and the pulse of American ragtime through playful, syncopated guitar and a booming voice reminiscent of some old jazz record you can’t quite put your finger on.

Saxophonist Xhosa Cole has been blazing a trail since he first emerged on the UK jazz scene as the winner of the BBC Young Jazz Musician of the Year award, in 2018.

A year later he collected the ‘best newcomer’ prize at the prestigious Parliamentary Jazz Awards, and was named Breakthrough Act of the Year by Jazz FM in the UK.