Spirits Aloft is a tribute to Rashied Ali who passed away in October 2009. Prior to his passing he worked with Henry Grimes on numerous projects. The two reconnected after many years on different paths and as time has a tendency to do, allowed them the opportunity to play and record together as if time had stood its ground.

Guelph Jazz Festival showcases a wide variety of performers from around the world and from our own backyard, some of whom have played the Festival before and others who will be visiting for the first time. We encourage you to learn more about them,

The Toronto Jazz Festival may have moved back to its original location in Toronto's theatre district but it did not feature a very strong line up of jazz. Following along with most of the major jazz festivals the organizers attempted to attract a more varied audience by appealing to a wide array of musical tastes. The opening act on day 1, June 24th - Aretha Franklin, a public favorite, The Queen of Soul gave a free concert that shut down one of Toronto's main streets - King St., adjacent to the Metro Square.

The Toronto Jazz Festival launch at Metro Square featuring a free show with Aretha Franklin went off as I expected. The festival opened noon time Friday June 24th as people lined up as early as 10AM to get their wrist bands that would guarantee them free entry to the big tent, housing the main stage performance area where Ms. Franklin the Queen of Soul would hold court later that evening.  

Celebrate Canada Day in Metro Square with the TD Toronto Jazz Festival