Shanghai has a rich jazz history that stretches back to the 1920s and no one has done as much to continue that tradition than the JZ Group. They’re going into overdrive this month with plans to reopen the much-missed JZ Club this month at Datong Mill and holding the 12th annual JZ Festival from October 15-16 at Expo Park.
Over the years, the JZ Festival has grown from a showcase of local jazz cats to China’s largest jazz festival and the second biggest in Asia.
Two-time Grammy Award winner Corinne Bailey Rae headlines, performing a soulful set on both nights. She will be joined by jazz luminaries like Randy Brecker (performing a Latin set), the Joshua Redman and Brad Mehldau Duo (neo-bop) and Death in Vegas (live electronica).
“Over the years, the JZ Festival has grown from a showcase of local jazz cats to China’s largest jazz festival and the second biggest in Asia”
With 44 acts rocking five stages, there are different flavors of music that appeal to even the pickiest music fan, with plenty of outstanding local talent performing on the big stage.
Even better, the JZ Festival prides itself in providing a family-friendly atmosphere, even offering free entry for children under 1.3 meters.
There will also be plenty of interactive areas fit for the whole family so that kids can get into the musical act. There’s the Drum Zone, a live percussion circle, and Ukelele Lesson, where lessons and song tutorials will be offered for free on the four-string instrument.
A Lifestyle Plaza will also allow audiences of all ages to join in on swing, salsa and yoga sessions. New projects like a Jazz Bookstore, Outdoor Cinema, Drama Valley and Fashion Camp will also be present.
The spacious Expo Park provides plenty of opportunities for families to explore with loads of vendors ranging from artisan crafts to food, as well as green space to relax.
Oct 15-16, noon-11pm, RMB260 (per day). Expo Park. See event listing.
