Jazz Fest celebrates roots — and features South Korean, Russian acts

By Jullian Paquin

Unlike some other music festivals in Ottawa, the Jazz Festival seems to be sticking mainly to its roots.

From groovy piano trios like Bad Plus, to impressive drummers like Mark Guiliana, this year’s Jazz Fest has something for every aficionado.

Maceo Parker & The Ray Charles Orchestra featuring the Raelettes are playing a tribute to American music legend Ray Charles on June 26. This big band combo is offers a mix of motown, funk and jazz.

Igor Butman and the Moscow Jazz Orchestra, known to be some of the most talented musicians in Russia, are performing on June 25.

Youn Sun Nah, a vocalist from South Korea, “has a remarkably mesmerizing range that is incredible to watch,” said Petr Cancura, Jazz Fest’s programming manager. “This is a unique opportunity to catch her performance since she doesn’t often travel.”

There will also be three headlining female vocalists, including Serena Ryder, Feist and Joss Stone.

What’s a music festival without a dash of country? Kenny Rogers will be playing at Jazz Fest on June 24 as a stop on his final world tour.

The 2017 TD Ottawa Jazz Festival runs from June 22 to July 2 at Confederation Park, across from City Hall.