The Victoria Jazz Society was founded in 1981 and since it’s inception has presented people living in Victoria as well as visitors with the opportunity to enjoy outstanding musical entertainment featuring the full spectrum of jazz and improvised music.
This professional arts organization has committed itself to producing top notch performances by acclaimed musicians and has attracted thousands of major artists from around the world. Hundreds of thousands of fans and music aficianados have flocked to the concerts and festivals presented by the Victoria Jazz Society.
The main focus of the society is the production of two major multi-day music festivals each summer. The TD Victoria International Jazz Fest takes place in early summer. For 2011 it will run June 24 – July 3.
The Vancouver Island Blues Bash should be enjoying its 17th year, but the future of this festival is, at the moment, up in the air. Current changes to the provincial gaming grant application criteria mean that this event no longer qualifies for funding. The Victoria Jazz Society is appealing for support from the local business community and the general public for sponsorship and donations to ensure that the festival continues.
Over 15,000 people attend the Vancouver Island Blues Bash each year and it is the longest running blues festival on the island. The VJS is hopeful that the fundraising efforts will be sufficient to keep the festival afloat.
Throughout the year the VJS produces a series of concerts which include performances by exceptional musicians and ensembles representing all facets of jazz, from traditional and mainstream to avant garde.
An exciting student outreach program is run by the VJS which brings professional musicians into the classroom to tutor students and spark desire in people interested in music as a career. Meeting with and learning from these professionals is an amazing opportunity and can inspire and invigorate a young musicians dedication.
The Victoria Jazz Society has been instrumental in bringing quality entertainment to Victoria through the production of popular festivals and concerts, hopefully they will be able to continue despite funding difficulties.
