Despite being one of the UK's best-known specialist music festivals with an international reputation, Brecon Jazz found itself in financial turmoil in 2008 and the 2009 event was called off for some months. In the end, however, a smaller-scale festival took place in August 2009. It has come back strong for 2010.
Line-up 2010
- Dave Stapleton
- Hakon Kornstad
- Neil Cowley Trio
- Trio Of Oz
- Pee Wee Ellis Funk Ensemble
- Kairos 4Tet
- Jason Yarde and Matthew McCormack
- John Crampton
- Jacqui Dankworth
- Charlie Musselwhite
- Orquesta Buena Vista Social Club
- Gwilym Simcock Trio
- Kyle Eastwood
- Acker Bilk
- Keith and Julie Tippett
- King Pleasure And The Biscuit Boys
- Dave Newton
In 2008, the festival celebrated its 25th anniversary with appearances from the likes of Cerys Matthews, Joan Armatrading and Courtney Pine and its musical achievements since 1983 have been legion.
Across the town of Brecon, from venues to the streets themselves, acts from the jazz and blues world of all levels play for thousands of attendees.
Examples of artists who have played over the years include legends and stars such as George Melly, Humphrey Lyttleton, Courtney Pine, Jools Holland, KT Tunstall, Amy Winehouse, Stephane Grappelli, Gerry Mulligan, Sun Ra, Lionel Hampton, Sonny Rollins, McCoy Tyner and Wynton Marsalis.
Welsh artists have also been well-represented over the years. Recent examples are Katherine Jenkins, Catrin Finch and Dave Stapleton.
The festival is run on a charitable trust by Brecon International Festival of Jazz Limited. As well as promoting the festival, the company also runs comprehensive education and outreach work in various locations in Wales and the South-West of England throughout the year.
In 2011, Brecon Jazz Festival takes place 12-14 August.
