4 minute read
During the last weekend of May, Brussels transforms into the capital of jazz. During Brussels Jazz Weekend from 24-26 May you can attend an unforgettable free jazz festival that will entrance the city.
With performances at various outdoor venues and in intimate clubs and bars, there is something for every jazz enthusiast. From swinging blues to energetic bebop and influences from rock and world music; the city is overflowing with musical diversity.
VIAGE swings along
But the jazz fest doesn’t stop at the streets of Brussels. In addition to outdoor concerts, various performances are waiting to be discovered in clubs and bars dotted throughout the city. Located in the heart of the city, VIAGE will obviously be contributing through its own indoor jazz programme. For three days, our stage is hosting some amazing bands in our iconic CINNA Bar. Admission is absolutely free and that includes non-members of VIAGE. What’s more, to get into the mood, 5.00 to 6.00 p.m. is Happy Hour at the CINNA Bar. Buy one drink and get two! It is the perfect way to relax and enjoy the jazz atmosphere with friends.
With a trio
On Friday, the Sebi Lee Trio will kick off an evening of boogie woogie, swing, jazz and blues. Sebi chased his passion on stages all over the globe. Sebastien Meyer found that passion at age sixteen when a skateboarding accident confined him to his bed for months. He killed time watching movies, including one about Jerry Lee Lewis. This inspired the boy so much that he started playing the piano immediately. Since then, music has dominated the life of the self-taught pianist. In addition to piano, Sebi also plays double bass and guitar. He mixes different styles: boogie, jazz, blues, rock ‘n’ roll, even country. For the Brussels Jazz Weekend, Sebi Lee will perform in trio. With piano accompaniment and the soulful sounds of double bass and saxophone, this jazz/swing trio will put on a show you’ll remember for a long time.
With a modern jazz experience
On Saturday, Antwerp-based Bacha & The Band will take you on a unique musical experience that is bound to leave a lasting impression. The group includes a deejay with percussion, a trumpeter, a violinist and an MC. Together, they flawlessly combine digital and instrumental melodies in a harmonious fusion of sounds. Their engaging branding offers the perfect balance between playfulness and sophistication, appealing to both younger and broader audiences. Their irresistible energy will draw you in and transform our space into a genuine temple of music. Get ready for a modern jazz experience that will make an indelible impression.
With irresistible rhythms
On Sunday Along Comes Mary will close out the Brussels Jazz Weekend. Front woman Marijke Hulsmans and her crew will take you on a journey through their swinging forties, fifties and sixties repertoire. She breathes new life into the hits by impetuously colouring outside the lines of jazz as we know it. Fans of swing, jazz, lindy hop, rock ‘n’ roll and blues won’t be able to stand still as Mary and her band launch a barrage of irresistible rhythms. Put on your dancing shoes, bring your friends and pull out all the stops to this perfect ending to the weekend.
More jazz!
And there's more! The following weekend, on Saturday 1 June, we’re keeping the jazz vibe alive with a performance by the Philip Catherine Quartet at THE VIAGE, the theatre of VIAGE. Since the 1960s, Philip Catherine has been a prominent figure on the European jazz scene. He has worked with such luminaries as Chet Baker and Charles Mingus. The light-fingered string virtuoso never loses himself in gratuitous technical demonstrations, focusing instead on purity of sound, intensity of improvisations and close-knit interplay with his musicians. Experience an intimate concert by this legendary guitarist in a prime acoustic setting. After the concert there will be an exclusive opportunity to engage in conversation with Philip Catherine, a must for any jazz hound. Tickets are available on www.mbpresents.be.
