Jazzfest Gathers Steam Ahead of Big Closing Day

With scheduled performances and jam sessions continuing through the week, organisers of the 27th staging of the International Jamaica Ocho Rios Jazz Festival are brimming with positive energy heading into this Sunday's (June 4) Closing Day, set for the Bandshell at Hope Gardens, beginning at mid-day.

"Already we have had a tremendous Opening Day at the FDR in Runaway Bay, a great Jazz Cruise and Somerset showcase in Portland, and wonderful out-turn for our other events," says Festival co-founder and director Myrna Hague Bradshaw. "We're looking forward to a terrific finale in Hope Gardens, and we invite folks to come out - not only for the fabulous musical showcase in store, but the ambiance and the camaraderie."

On the line-up for the closing day are Italian all-female troupe, La Birette, who have wasted no time in winning many new fans on their Jamaican foray. Also on the line-up is the dynamic South African vocalist Lorraine Klaasen; Danish pianist-bandleader Carl Winther and the Grand Beat, while out of the USA will be fusion outfit, Project Grand Slam, who are in the process of promoting their latest recording. Joining them will be staple Jamaica Big Band, vocalist extraordinaire Tony Gregory ('Gypsy') and  Marjorie Kay.

In addition to the musical offerings, this year's festival also features a seminar/workshop with Dr. Myrna Hague-Bradshaw who will give an analysis on the history of Jazz in the Caribbean to a mostly high school student audience.