By Wayne Baggs/BKONTHESCENE
The first day of The TD Toronto Jazz Festival was absolutely beautiful. The weather was exceptionally lovely. The stages were set up in a way that was perfect for walking and provided ample shade. The Main Stage showcased multiple Local High School Jazz bands, preserving the music’s vitality.
Denielle Bassel, Brock Stonefish, and The Blackburn Brothers performed on the beautifully situated Village stage in Yorkville. It’s both fortunate and unfortunate that I was able to attend the Concert Hall and experience the legendary Preservation Hall Jazz Band, but missed out on the Blackburn Brothers. Kicking off the show was Toronto’s own electrifying Big Smoke Brass. Through a masterful performance and engaging anecdotes, the Preservation Hall Jazz Band connected with the audience and shared the history of their music.
The intimate connection between the audience and the performers was evident as they passionately upheld and celebrated traditional jazz. From the second the band began playing, they whisked the audience away to the heart of New Orleans. Their timeless renditions of classic jazz pieces were infused with energy and soul. Each member showcased their virtuosic talent, effortlessly blending solos into cohesive, vibrant performances. The band’s seamless interplay, the rhythmic beats of the drums, and the soulful melodies of the brass instruments captivated the crowd. The bar was set for the rest of the festival.
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