The Kildare Jazz Festival is a vibrant annual celebration of jazz, showcasing an exciting mix of local, national, and international musicians at the Riverbank Arts Centre in Newbridge, County Kildare. Launched in November 2023, the festival is curated by singer, composer, and band leader Kasia Eliasz, whose passion for community and creativity drives the event's dynamic programming.
A Platform for Jazz Excellence
The festival’s inaugural edition featured standout performances by global talents such as Peruvian guitarist Rodrigo Almonte, Grammy-winning Brazilian percussionist Rogerio Boccato, and Irish vocalist Lauren Kinsella. Audiences enjoyed intimate gigs, large ensemble performances, and genre-crossing collaborations across a three-day schedule.
Workshops & Community Engagement
Beyond the concerts, the festival fosters community connection through interactive workshops. These have included samba sessions for children, Afro-Brazilian dance classes for adults, and drumming workshops, creating a rich, immersive experience for participants of all ages.
An Annual Tradition in the Making
Following its successful debut, the Kildare Jazz Festival is set to return in 2025, running from Friday, April 4 to Sunday, April 6. The upcoming programme promises an even broader array of performances and workshops, with highlights including French vocalist Camille Bertault, pianist David Helbock, and family-friendly shows like Ta Tum Tum! x Ceol Connected.
Tickets & Booking
Tickets are available individually, as day passes, or weekend bundles. They can be purchased online at riverbank.ie or via the Riverbank Arts Centre Box Office at 045 448327 during business hours.
Festival Vision
According to Kasia Eliasz, the festival aims to become a cornerstone of Kildare’s cultural scene:
"Our vision is for the Kildare Jazz Festival to be a platform for emerging artists, a wellspring of inspiration for future generations of music enthusiasts, and a symbol of unity within our community."
With its diverse programming, inclusive workshops, and a commitment to artistic excellence, the Kildare Jazz Festival is quickly establishing itself as a must-attend event for jazz lovers near and far.
