A Festival Experience- Montreal Jazz Festival Day 1
There are many free concerts at the festival |
Afterwards I went to a press event, and had the amazing opportunity to watch the soundcheck for the June 30th Bobby McFerrin concert. McFerrin was hugely animated and connected with his ensemble, which included his daughter. The music seemed to be flowing out of McFerrin, with the soulfulness evident in his spirituals. Following this soundcheck was a Q&A with the press and McFerrin. I was surprised by the purity in McFerrin's speaking. He answered every press question with ease, wit, and honesty.
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Q&A with McFerrin |
I had the experience of a lifetime going to the Hypnotic Brass concert at the Metropolis, which featured Trombone Shorty. I have always wanted to see Trombone Shorty perform, and this group was a party starter. I stood three rows in from the stage, shook Trombone Shorty's hand, and danced to the music. I was surprised by the group- Hypnotic Brass blends jazz, funk, hip-hop, and rock. There were laser lights, fog, audience sing alongs, and crazy dance moves- not what I would have expected, but it was great just to dance and groove along with the music, which matched a club scene vibe more than a jazz show vibe.
Hypnotic Brass |
Watching the jam session |
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Meeting Ambrose |
Final Thoughts:
It was an amazing first day at the Montreal Jazz Festival. The city is absolutely gorgeous, the people are kind and welcoming, and the music is lively and available to the public. Everywhere I turned I heard more music, whether it was Dixieland, funk, or jazz standards sung in French. People of all ages, from babies, to teens, to parents, to grandparents were dancing in the streets. If only every moment of every day was filled with this sort of enthusiasm and passion for music and life!
More detailed reviews of concerts and experiences are forthcoming.
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