 We’re well into our second decade now.
No longer the new kid on the block, but one
of the established festivals that is well respected
in the Canadian jazz festivals network.
And yet each festival comes around like a
newborn calf, kicking its heals with something
new and exciting that keeps the whole
experience fresh and compelling. We are
facing both the challenges and the rewards
of longevity. Each year I am reminded how
fortunate we are to have the support of
individuals and businesses in Medicine Hat
who give us the stability we need to continue
bringing JazzFest to the streets of our beautiful
city.
Thank you.
Having such legendary performers as Lee
Konitz, Monty Alexander and Andy Bey
coming to our festival truly plants us in the
international scene. These three have collectively
played with all the greats and led
the way in shaping the history of our music.
The opportunities to hear these seasoned
performers is not to be missed.
So, what’s new? Lots! We’re expanding
our musical boundaries and targeting some
performances for a younger crowd with the
beginnings of a groove series. This year’s
featured performers in that genre are The
National Parcs and Grand Analog, a couple
of funky hip hop based groups that will have
the break dancers spinning. Beady Belle
returns, who will not only appeal to a young
crowd, but a broad range of ages and musical
tastes with her smooth intelligent lyrics
and mixture of live and computer generated
sounds.
We’re busting out some new performance
spaces as well. We’re heading up to the terrace
of the Esplanade, and looking forward
to some scenic moments overlooking the city
while the band plays. We’re making a return
visit to the Medalta Pottery site for an outdoor
African dance party, and even turning
the stage of the Esplanade into an intimate
jazz club around the concert grand piano!
Having the Neville Brothers on our bill is
a delight. Like a
walking history
of popular funk
driven music, the
reputation of this
family band speaks
for itself.
The hidden
gem year after
year is the late
night series in the
Esplanade Studio
Theatre dubbed
The Studio Club.
These bands are
always representative of the most creative
and talented bands on the scene. These are
hand-picked – each with its own flavor. I encourage
you to give one a try this year. You
may be amazed at what you hear.
Check out the clubs and pubs section. Support
the local clubs and restaurants that are
bringing in live music.
It’s the beginning of summer. It’s JazzFest
time! And the world is coming to your back
door. So open it up, and breathe it in for a
solid week!
Welcome to JazzFest 2008!
Lyle Rebbeck
Producer
|
 On behalf of the City of Medicine Hat, it is a pleasure to welcome
you to the 12th Annual Medicine Hat Jazz Festival.
The Medicine Hat JazzFest has grown from a grassroots community-
based event to a widely recognized world-class festival,
which has taken its place alongside the other great jazz festivals in
Western Canada.
The JazzFest continues to provide an opportunity for Hatters
and visitors alike to experience the tremendous support for arts
and culture throughout the city. Featured performers are anxious
to entertain at the festival for the increased exposure it provides
the artist as well as the opportunity to be in Medicine Hat to
experience all we have to offer.
We are pleased to welcome performers from all over the globe
this year, as well as, many local artists. Venues include entertainment
from Canada and the United States and as far away as
Cuba, Asia and the Netherlands.
If you have never had the opportunity to attend the JazzFest,
I highly recommend the well organized and colourful performances.
If you have had the pleasure of attending the festival in
the past, may I suggest you come again and enjoy the exceptional
community cultural experience.
My sincerest thanks to the patrons and organizers for offering a
festival of this caliber in our city.
Norm Boucher
Mayor
 Congratulations to all organizers, volunteers, and musicians of
the Medicine Hat JazzFest 2008!
As we now celebrate the twelfth year of the JazzFest, we are
once again ready to enjoy a truly world-class event. The quality
of this annual, local event is something that we all take pride
in.
I encourage our local musicians, residents, and visitors to take
in the concerts at local halls, clubs and outdoor settings. This
year I am particularly looking forward to programs geared
toward the youth of Medicine Hat and area. The educational
workshops and jam sessions will provide immense benefits to
aspiring artists of all ages.
To all artists and guests visiting us from around the province,
country and world, I would like to extend a special “Welcome
to Medicine Hat”! I trust that you will all take special memories
from Southern Alberta home with you.
On behalf of Premier Ed Stelmach, and all the Members of the
Legislative Assembly of Alberta, please accept my sincere best
wishes for a successful JazzFest 2008.
Rob Renner, MLA
Medicine Hat
|
 Greetings to all those taking part in the 2008 Medicine Hat
Jazz Fest.
Highlighting the diverse influences in the evolving jazz repertoire,
this festival brims with international headliners and
emerging jazz artists, whose performances range from Dixieland
and latin to contemporary blues. Cultural events of this caliber
showcase Canadian performers, introduce new artists, develop
new audiences, and ensure that jazz continues to grow in popularity
throughout the country.
As minister of Canadian Heritage, Status of Women and Official
Languages, I am proud to support this festival, which ensures
residents and visitors to Medicine Hat and the surrounding area
have a chance to enjoy all that jazz!
Josee’ Verner
Minister of Canadian Heritage,
Status of Women and Official Languages |
