Late June is a jazz lover's paradise in Vancouver. The annual jazz festival pulls together musicians from around the world and around the corner to play over 300 shows around the city.
Hot Air host Margaret Gallagher shines a spotlight on just a few of the hot tickets between now and July 1.
Darcy James Argue's Secret Society, Friday June 20 8 p.m., Performance Works
North Vancouver-raised, Brooklyn-based composer and conductor and his acclaimed modern big band band will share music from Brooklyn Babylon, an album that takes listeners to a mythical Brooklyn. Plus John Korsud's Hard Rubber Orchestra will premiere a commissioned work composed by Argue.
Bobby McFerrin, Sunday June 20, 8 p.m., Orpheum
The legendary vocalist brings his gospel project to the Orpheum. With opening music by Vancouver's Sojourners, listeners are sure to be uplifted.
Michael Blake - The Komagata Maru Blues, Sunday June 22, 9 p.m., Ironworks
Acclaimed New York-based saxophonist and composer Michael Blake returns to his hometown of Vancouver with the world premiere of his work inspired by the Komagata Maru incident and his own family's role in it.
Arturo Sandoval, Monday June 23, 9 p.m., The Vogue
Multi-award winning Cuban trumpet player (of Irakere fame) pays tribute to his mentor and friend Dizzy Gillespie.
Jill Barber, Tuesday, June 24, 9 p.m., The Vogue
The Vancouver-based chanteuse serves up dreamy, charming jazzy tunes that can transport you to a cafe in Paris, or to a starry summer night under a mischievous moon.
Cory Weeds with Harold Mabern, June 26 and 27, 7:30 p.m., Pyatt Hall
The man behind Cellar Jazz takes the stage at the VSO School of Music concert hall with a the legendary pianist Harold Mabern
Pugs and Crows with Tony Wilson, June 27, 11:30 p.m., Ironworks
The Juno-winning Vancouver quartet teams up with guitarist Tony Wilson for a late night of thoughtful, inventive chamber jazz.
Hugh Fraser and VEJI, June 27, Pat's Pub, 6 p.m.
A night of Latin-inspired music from the high energy bandleader/trombonist/pianist and his acclaimed big band. The next night you can catch his award-winning quintet and the release of a new CD, Concerto.
Cassandra Wilson, June 29, Vogue Theatre, 9 p.m.
The American singer draws you in with her smoky, unforgettable voice and a repertoire that includes jazz, soul and country.
Jennifer Scott Quartet with guest Dave Sikula & Trilogy June 30, Pyatt Hall, 7:30 p.m.
An evening of top-notch Vancouver talent to celebrate two CD releases. Jennifer Scott is a great jazz vocalist known for her improv skills, while Trilogy is fashioned after the great early jazz trios of Nat King Cole and Oscar Peterson.