The 12th annual Devonport Jazz, Tasmania took place from Thursday 25 to Sunday 28 July in 41 concerts at 24 venues throughout Devonport and surrounds. The Devonport Entertainment and Convention Centre was a focal point for the festival, however other venues included various pubs, clubs and restaurants throughout the municipality as well as some properties in neighbouring communities. Additional activities in the lead up to the festival including live theatre and film were a feature of this year’s event.
Many styles of Jazz were represented by Tasmanian, national and international artists, including Gospel, Latin, Traditional, Mainstream, Swing, Big Band, Blues, Modern and Original music. Several special projects were highlighted within the program, including tributes to Sidney Bechet, Dave Brubeck, the Great American Songbook and the Giants of West Coast and Cool Jazz. Another special feature was the coupling of Modern Jazz Standards with the poetry of Geoff Page, presented by the author himself.
Special guests to the festival included Australian music icon Kate Ceberano (NSW), Blues star Stevie Paige (VIC), international band The Australians (NSW) featuring Tricia Evy (France) and Harry Kanters (Netherlands), Generations in Jazz Academy Big Band (SA) and the highly acclaimed Joe Creighton (NSW). There were also numerous bands from around the State performing during the four day festival to many sell-out crowds.
Planning is already underway for the 2014 Devonport Jazz festival, where some of the most talented and respected Jazz musicians in Australia will be showcased.
