Boxing great George Foreman once described boxing as being like Jazz:
‘The better it is, the less people appreciate it.’
Jazz doesn’t get much better than the huge range of performances and events that are showcased at the annual Melbourne International Jazz Festival. This annual event has been running for over 20 years – the dates for 2018 haven’t been set yet, but it’s generally held over ten days in early June.
If you’re in Melbourne, or close enough that you can get there, this is one music festival that you shouldn’t miss.
The jazz capital of Australia
Melbourne’s music scene is renowned around the country as being vibrant and accessible. With Melbourne as its host, Australia’s International Jazz Festival has evolved and grown so that it now effectively takes over the city for ten days of musical celebration. It’s not just in the concert halls, arts venues, and jazz clubs that you’ll feel the power of this festival — the streets of the city itself come alive with the sounds and spirit of jazz.
Are you a jazz aficionado?
One of the great things about Melbourne’s International Jazz Festival is that it offers something for everyone. If you know your jazz and want to appreciate some of the masters at work then the festival presents a unique opportunity, but there’s also jazz club nights, and plenty of local talent on offer as well with jazz events happening across the city.
How to enjoy jazz
Since its beginning, jazz has always seemed to have its own unique language. While no one really says ‘hip’, ‘cat’ or ‘daddy-o’ anymore, you might want to throw in the occasional ‘cool’, or ‘baby’, or just make up your own jazz-appreciation slang — there’s really no rules. Jazz is the kind of music that gets into your soul, makes you feel something, reminds you to be in the moment.
Where to find it
You’ll get the best out of this festival if you spend a little time planning the logistics. While much of the action is hosted at the Arts Centre and The Malthouse in the city’s Southbank precinct, there are also numerous venues in the city centre, plus a whole series of events held in Footscray in the west of the city.
Where to stay
If you’re planning your accommodation opt for somewhere central with good transport links. Some suggested options include:
- High-End: The Langham. CBD location and a stylishly cool hotel.
- Mid-Range: Great Southern. Central location with great transport links, puts you right in the heart of the action.
- Budget: Ibis Styles. Business district location means you can pretty much walk everywhere.
Whether you live in Melbourne or just visiting this exciting city, make sure that you make the most of this unique opportunity to experience world-class jazz musicians at their very best. Events like this are the envy of jazz lovers around the world.
Immerse yourself in Melbourne. Immerse yourself in the International Jazz Festival. Jazz so good that they make it look easy.
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