The Watford Jazz Junction music festival returns
From 18th-21st May 2023
From 18th to 21st May, the Watford Jazz Junction will once again present a world-class programme of performers, this year showcasing the influence of the Caribbean on UK jazz, soul and blues.
Venues include Watford Palace Theatre and the Pump House Theatre & Arts Centre while Jazz Steps sees 15 bands and acts performing across 5 pubs in Oxhey Village.
For more information and to buy your tickets, head to watfordjazzjunction.com
The 2023 Programme
Saturday 13th May
Jazz FM presenter Ruth Fisher presents her Jazz Prosecco Brunch featuring the John Altman Trio. Tickets available here.
Thursday 18th May
Soul legend Omar opens the festival in a double-billing with the UK’s foremost Black British jazz vocalist, Zara McFarlane. Expect jazz, reggae, nu-soul, soul and of course a performance of Omar’s celebrated chart hit ‘There’s Nothing Like This’. Tickets available here.
Friday 19th May
A quartet from new-generation saxophonist Xhosa Cole, winner of the Breakthrough Act of the Year at the Jazz FM Awards 2020. Tickets available here.
Saturday 20th May
An interactive Jazz for Young Ones workshop, delivered by the Music Workshop Company. It’s for 4-12 year old and no experience is necessary. Tickets available here.
A quintet from Parliamentary Jazz Award 2022 winner Emma Rawicz, described by Jamie Callum as “an astonishing new talent”. A quartet led by rising pianist Oscar Lyons opens the show. Tickets available here.
The Great Jamaican Songbook presented by Cleveland Watkiss and a stellar line-up of musicians, including Watford resident & jazz legend Orphy Robinson. Tickets available here.
Sunday 21st May
A second edition of the hugely popular Jazz Steps Around Oxhey Village fringe festival runs. Jazz Steps sees 15 bands and acts performing across 5 pubs in the Village with an eclectic mix of ska, blues, funk, New Orleans, soul and of course jazz – mixing professionals and local amateur acts. More information here.
The festival concludes with another free stand-out performance from world steel-pan master, Leon Foster Thomas with his sextet. More information here.