James Richardson

Ottawa Jazz Festival

What began as a weekend of outdoor jazz in Major's Hill Park back in 1980 has evolved into one of the National Capital Region's most highly anticipated musical events of the summer. Founded in 1980 by local musicians who wanted to celebrate the popular jazz scene in Ottawa. The Festival grew quickly, attracting such international names as Stan Getz, Sonny Rollins, Herb Ellis, Bob Brookmeyer, Wynton Marsalis and Milt Jackson. Larger and larger crowds came out each year, and the Festival began to stretch beyond traditional jazz and attract new supporters. Expanding beyond its outdoor venue the Festival ventured into indoor satellite events and introduced the late night jam sessions so popular today. The TD Ottawa Jazz Festival is the premier music event to take place in downtown Ottawa and we are proud to be part of the continuing tradition of bringing jazz to the National Capital Region. Set on a bold path, trailblazing the most dynamic programming and innovations, the Festival continues to present the finest musicians from across Canada and around the world in all genres and inspirations of Jazz.