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| Jazzin' Llangollen 2007 Thousands of music fans, tourists and families are expected to descend on Llangollen for a major new jazz festival that looks set to become one of the biggest in Wales. Organisers of Jazzin' Llangollen say the town's streets will be awash with music guaranteed to get people's toes tapping and fingers clicking. Artistic director Huw Warren, one of Wales' best jazz musicians and winner of the BBC Jazz Award for Innovation, said: “Whether you're a dedicated music fan or just looking for a great day out, this promises to be a fantastic three-day event with cutting edge, internationally renowned jazz, swing and gospel artists at venues across the town. And what better setting than the beautiful Welsh town of Llangollen!” As well as proving a hit with residents and visitors, it's hoped the festival will provide a real boost for shops, hotels, restaurants and other local businesses that thrive on tourism. Graham Berry, Denbighshire County Council's marketing officer for Llangollen, said: “We are encouraging businesses all over Llangollen to get involved by tapping into the jazz theme. “We already have a fantastic events calendar that attracts people from far and wide throughout the year, but this event has the potential to add another string to our bow and help galvanise our reputation as the festival capital of Wales.” Tourism is worth some 48 million to Llangollen and the Dee Valley every year, employing some 220 people. Jazzin' Llangollen is a new event, independent from the old jazz festival that used to take place. The new festival is a joint effort between the Royal International Pavilion and the Llangollen Partnership; an umbrella organisation representing local business, public and community sector groups. Pavilion chief executive Gwyn Williams said: “This is the first time the pavilion and the town have worked together at this level and it's great to see us pooling our resources. “A huge amount of time and effort has gone into organising this festival and I think we're going to see a real buzz on the streets of Llangollen come May 11.” Top jazz artists taking part include Huw Warren, Claire Martin, Joanna Macgregor, The Amigos, Acoustic Ladyland, Perfect Houseplants and more. Aside from the headline events, people will be able to soak up the street entertainment, workshops, kids' activities and a whole host other gigs taking place across the town - all amid a swinging festival atmosphere. Local schools and residents will also be getting involved in workshops and performances, and there will be lots of activities encouraging people to “try jazz.” write your comments about the article :: © 2007 Jazz News :: home page |