Grammy-winning saxophonist headlines fast-selling Watford Jazz Festival

The prestigious Watford Jazz Junction Festival is fast selling out.

It's doors open on May 16 with a gala show at the Palace Theatre, featuring globally recognised jazz icons, Ray Gelato & The Giants and Grammy-winning saxophonist Jean Toussaint.

This is the group's first ever performance in Watford, and they come equipped with a repertoire inspired by rhythm and blues, as well as swing classics, having just completed an 11-day stint at Italy's Umbria Jazz Festival.

Music legends Paul McCartney and Van Morrison have both praised the band's performances in the past.

Preceding this act is a one-off solo performance by the gifted singer/pianist Xantoné Blacq, who played keyboards for Amy Winehouse for many years and performs funk, soul and groove-inspired jazz, reflecting influences from maestros like Herbie Hancock and Quincy Jones.

The festival stretches across several days, with attendees having options such as a brunch show at Halsey Hall, a unique Cuban-Afrobeat performance from Lokkhi Terra, and a host of other sessions at the Pump House Theatre & Arts Centre.

The festival concludes on May 19 with a free-to-attend Jazz Steps Across Oxhey Village event, featuring more than 20 jazz performances, including the acclaimed Ronnie Scott’s All Stars.

For additional information and ticket details, visit www.watfordjazzjunction.com.