History
The Guelph Jazz Festival (GJF) was founded in 1994 to present creative improvised music in the city. Founding Artistic Director Ajay Heble and Director of Operations Julie Hastings led the organisation for many years as it developed a strong international reputation. Artistic and General Director Scott Thomson then took over from the pair to oversee programming and administration until 2023. The organisation has produced 26 years of excellent programming, including virtually every major figure in creative improvised music, while maintaining its commitment to Canadian artists, both regionally and from farther afield.
Currently, Alex Ricci and Karen Ng serve as Interim General Director and Interim Artistic Director respectively.
Awards
- Winner, Premier’s Award for Excellence in the Arts, 2010
- Finalist, Premier’s Award for Excellence in the Arts, 2009
- Nominee, Festival of the Year, National Jazz Awards, 2009
- Finalist, Premier’s Award for Excellence in the Arts, 2008
- Finalist, Events Producer of the Year, Jazz Journalists Association, 2008
- Winner, Lieutenant Governor’s Award for the Arts, 2001, 2000, 1997
Vision
Guelph Jazz Festival presents excellent, unconventional live music.
Mission
Guelph Jazz Festival presents excellent, unconventional live music. The Festival strives to present music that reflects the world in which we live and to make it accessible to the broadest audience through concerts, educational initiatives, and free programs.