World-class violinist Marc Destrubé and acclaimed harpsichordist Christina Hutten will present the following events at St. Andrew's Presbyterian Church (4235 Departure Bay Road, Nanaimo):

  - 10:00 AM: Clinic/Workshop "Playing in the Baroque Style"
  - 3:00 PM: Concert, featuring music by 17th- and 18th-century composers
  - 5:30 PM: Masterclasses

To register for the clinic/workshop or masterclasses, purchase tickets, or find more information, please visit www.intunewith.ca

This special Sunday afternoon show is presented in Vancouver Island Conference Center’s Shaw Auditorium overlooking Nanaimo’s downtown waterfront. Doors will open an hour before showtime. Lobby entertainment and bar services will be offered prior to the show and during intermission. Downtown street level parking and the Bastion Street Parkade are free on Sundays. Underground parking in the conference centre is plentiful ($.75 first two hours). Most downtown restaurants are open Sunday daytime and happy to take your reservations or drop-in visits.

DETAILS & TICKETS: https://www.nanaimojazzfest.ca/jocelyngould

Zappostrophe’ is a Vancouver-based eight-piece band performing both fan favourites and hidden gems from the eclectic catalogue of Frank Zappa. Made up of professional musicians with diverse backgrounds and training, the band shares one thing in common: a love of the challenge of recreating—and reimagining—Zappa's extraordinary music.

The band is excited to return to Nanaimo to share its fresh take on Zappa's incredible repertoire with audiences at the Nanaimo Jazz Festival.

Expect a set that ranges from classics like "Don't Eat the Yellow Snow" and "Montana" to complex masterpieces such as "Inca Roads," along with high-energy instrumentals that showcase the band's exceptional musicianship. Virtuoso performances, tight vocal harmonies, and plenty of humour make for an unforgettable evening. Grab your favourite baby seal and Nanook your way down to the Shaw Auditorium for a night celebrating the music of Frank Zappa!

DETAILS & TICKETS:
https://www.eventist.ca/nanaimoJazzFest?add=per__JHFFW0oaM4KoDIAK

Spend a Friday evening with Alex Cuba in the Vancouver Island Conference Centre’s Shaw Auditorium overlooking Nanaimo’s downtown waterfront. Doors will open an hour before showtime with lobby entertainment and bar services offered prior to the show and during intermission. Downtown street level parking and the Bastion Street Parkade are free. Underground parking (elevator to the Auditorium entrance) in the conference centre is plentiful ($.75 first two hours). More than two dozen downtown restaurants and night spots welcome your patronage before and after the show!

DETAILS: https://www.nanaimojazzfest.ca/alexcuba

HAPPY ANNIVERSARY JAZZ FEST!

It's our birthday and the Coast Bastion Inn Ballroom is providing an intimate setting to celebrate in style! We'll recognize Nanaimo's incredible history and promising future in jazz. Local, dedicated jazz enthusiasts will be honoured for their vision, imagination and commitment to the Festival from its initiation through 10 years of growth to where we are now.

Share a table to enjoy the celebration and the great Dee Daniels with friends or meet some new ones that night sharing your mutual love of live jazz and the incredible talent of this amazing artist. Doors open an hour before showtime with lobby entertainment. Bar and appy services are offered during the evening. Downtown street level parking and the Bastion Street Parkade are free and underground parking (elevator to the hotel lobby) in the Harbourfront Centre Parkade is plentiful ($.75 first two hours). More than two dozen downtown restaurants and night spots welcome your patronage before and after the show!

DETAILS : https://www.nanaimojazzfest.ca/deedaniels

TICKETS AT DOOR ONLY AS OF 12 NOON, SEPTEMBER 19. DOORS OPEN AT 6:30 PM AT THE COAST BASTION.

MA:Q cut her teeth playing keyboards with acts such as Khari McLelland, Kimmortal, Jill Barber, Ashleigh Ball and Tonye. She has opened for John Mayer, Ziggy Marley, Snoop Dogg and performed on the Warped Tour for two years.

Mary has a passion for storytelling and the human condition. She enjoys collaborating with other artists and her aim is to help tell more diverse stories through her music. Grab your tickets today and then make your way to The Queen's for this super special night.

DETAILS: https://www.eventist.ca/nanaimoJazzFest?add=per__KFNyIVtA2PaSWyI7

Enjoy live music all day long in a festival atmosphere with food trucks and artisan vendors. Here’s the od

Fishin' Jazz Musicians
Slim Sandy's Atomic Cocktails
Doc Fingers, Phil Dwyer & Buff Allen Trio
Miles Black Quartet
The Midnights

Enjoy live music all day long in a festival atmosphere with food trucks and artisan vendors.

The Shuffle Brothers featuring Nico Rhodes 
Luke Blue Guthrie
Busheikin/Villette Quartet 
Lache Cercel & Roma Swing Orchestra
Alex Maher

"In Tune with ..." is a brand-new music series featuring acclaimed musicians who bring a complete day of musical discovery to Nanaimo. Guy Few, Canadian trumpet virtuoso, pianist and vocal coach will be in town on Aug. 29, 2026, to offer a clinic from 10:00 – 12:00, eight (8) masterclasses from 1:00 – 5:00 pm, and an inspiring evening concert at 7:00 pm. He will be joined by pianist Donna Falconer. More information: www.intunewith.ca

Busheikin/Villette present Juno nominated vocalist Ale Nunez from Toronto.

Kosma Busheikin and Graham Villette are quickly making a name for themselves as bandleaders and music presenters. Their next project will feature Juno nominated vocalist Ale Nunez from Toronto. "Ale brings a musical sophistication to every performance, with a tone that is uniquely her own and a true dedication to her artistry". The quartet will also feature the sounds of the Hammond Organ and will play a mixture of classic jazz repertoire alongside soulful, funky numbers.

TICKETS:
https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/busheikinvillette-present-ale-nunez-quartet-tickets-1994281886808?aff=oddtdtcreator&fbclid=IwY2xjawTna_dwZG9mBWV4dG4DYWVtAjEwAGJyaWQRMWhLVk5SbzhGd0l0c0dHSzZzcnRjBmFwcF9pZBAyMjIwMzkxNzg4MjAwODkyAAEeHkM5PaGhdKfY8yhVwWuPzZ_fDJS161lxW7y_zFW8Z32hvghs4l9FUis4W-4_aem_4YkUVfsgFzEVAL914YkF7w

Music at the Museum is pleased to close out our July series with Kyle McKearney! Experience his soulful storytelling and genre-defying Americana live, as he brings the energy of his award-winning albums to the stage. Don’t miss this chance to see one of Canada’s most captivating voices up close.

Kyle McKearney is redefining Americana, weaving soulful storytelling with gritty, roots-inspired instrumentation into a genre-defying sound that makes him one of Canada’s most captivating voices. His 2025 album, To The River, has earned 3x award wins so far (from 11 nominations) following the success of his sophomore album which went on to win a Canadian Country Music Award for "Alternative Country Album of the Year" and a Canadian Folk Music Award for "Contemporary Singer of the Year." These pivotal releases launched him onto major stages with the likes of The Black Crowes, Blue Rodeo, Lainey Wilson, and Darius Rucker, performing everywhere from intimate theatres to massive arenas and festivals across Canada, the USA, Europe, and the UK. Kyle’s fourth studio album starts rolling out early 2026 and is Kyle’s first concept record. Follow @imkylemckearney and experience the journey of building LP4 while Kyle explores a new world of immersive artistry, from his roots to your earbuds.
https://imkylemckearney.com/

TICKETS:
https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/music-the-museum-presents-kyle-mckearney-tickets-1986499885633?aff=oddtdtcreator

Music at the Museum is pleased to present Motown, featuring acclaimed Canadian soul artist Krystle Dos Santos! Join us in the Museum’s intimate outdoor garden this July for a high-energy tribute to the timeless sound of Motown. From infectious dance hits to heartfelt ballads, Krystle and her live band deliver the groove, spirit, and soul that made Motown a global phenomenon.

Krystle Dos Santos is a 2x Western Canadian award winning singer/songwriter and performer. Her award winning self titled album was released in 2008, followed by Fame Fatale in 2011. BLOOM|BURN, her 3rd studio release, awarded her the WCMA for R&B artist of the year in 2020. From singing on stage with Stevie Wonder and Michael Buble to theatre performances on stages all around North America, Dos Santos brings her eclectic style, powerful vocal prowess and magnetic charm to every performance she delivers. Catch her sharing the story of Canadian civil rights icon Viola Desmond in her original co-creation, Hey Viola!, or with her new country/rock project Orchard Sky in venues across our beautiful country. 
https://www.krystledossantos.com/

TICKETS:
https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/music-the-museum-presents-krystle-dos-santos-tickets-1986499615826?aff=oddtdtcreator

Music at the Museum is pleased to present Waleed Kush Afro-Jazz, a constantly evolving ensemble shaped by the artists and landscapes that inspire it.
Living in a continual state of “Becoming,” the band embraces exploration, inclusivity, and accessibility, blending African rhythms with American jazz harmonies to create a vibrant cultural melting pot. More than just performers, Waleed Kush Afro-Jazz draws on African principles of community and shared knowledge, fostering connections among the musicians themselves and with their audiences. Their workshops reflect this ethos, emphasizing mentorship and collective learning.
This philosophy inspired Waleed to call himself and his bandmates “Humanity Practitioners,” recognizing music as a healing art. Through their performances and interactions, they create a space for connection and restoration—for themselves and everyone they reach.

Our music and the title of our concert and workshop series reflects the origins of rhythm; the inspirations for our music and what it has achieved: the sonorous mixing of rhythm and harmony, that mirrors Toronto's blend of culture and people. Audiences respond to these rhythms and melodies, which creates a vibrant exciting atmosphere, and they leave energized from our unique music. Fans have said, “We dance, we’re entranced, the music feeds our soul”.

The Waleed Kush African Jazz Ensemble takes the improvisational qualities of jazz and the beat of ancient African rhythms to literally move, excite and inspire new and old audiences alike.  https://www.waleedkush.ca/

TICKETS:
https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/music-the-museum-presents-waleed-kush-afro-jazz-tickets-1986499255749?aff=oddtdtcreator

We are very pleased to announce that The exceptionally talented Miranda Sage Quartet will be playing for us at the Simonholt Restaurant, (Nanaimo) July 12th. 7:300pm. Miranda will be touring her latest album release. Her quartet features the award-winning Mike Allen on tenor sax, Dr. Tony Genge on keys, and Ken Lister on bass.

Miranda studied jazz vocals with Jordan, Jay Clayton, Louise Rose and seminal British jazz singer Norma Winstone who praises Miranda’s singing on her latest album as “very flexible and natural.” Born in England and raised in Victoria, B.C. in a musical family. Miranda was taught piano by her mother before she started school and she played lute, harp, clarinet and alto sax in school then took up guitar and a professional career including tours of Europe, England and the U.S. in her 20’s.

She has performed with Hugh Fraser’s Big Band, the Port Townsend Jazz Festival Big Band, and Swiftsure Big Band. Sage’s vocals were also showcased at Scotland’s Mid Argyle Annual Gala, Isle of Wight Jazz Divas Festival, Alberta’s Beneath the Arches concert series, multiple appearances at the TOSH concert series in Qualicum Beach, and Victoria International Jazz Festival. Miranda and Don Thompson toured throughout western Canada. Her recorded performances were also featured on 16 compilation discs released in Taiwan and Singapore.

Tickets for Miranda's are $30.00 (students, NIJFA subscribers and Quadwrangle Regulars $25.00) available from Simonholt (250) 933-3338, Fascinating Rhythm,
or HERE

This is going to be a fabulous show, so hope to see you soon!

“MUSIC AT THE MUSEUM” is pleased to present Ethan Askey & The Elevators. With electric harmonicas, slide guitar, and a driving rhythm section, they deliver an energetic blend of “Rocky Mountain roots and boogie blues” infused with funk, swing, alt-country, and rock & roll. Ethan’s award-winning harmonica playing, singing, and songwriting have earned international recognition, with his debut solo album charting in the Top 50 for over 150 weeks worldwide. Touring across Europe and North America, the band captivates audiences with powerful, soulful performances.

They colour outside the lines into funk, swing, alt country and rock & roll. As Cashbox Canada Magazine (2025) puts it, "they stake out solid ground as modern storytellers
with an authentic voice and some vintage voltage".
https://youtu.be/M1oVsOS_IQo?si=H_YFuPCIn3Fs2SN5
https://www.ethanaskey.com

TICKETS:
https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/music-the-museum-presents-ethan-askey-and-the-elevators-tickets-1986498663979?aff=oddtdtcreator

Busheikin/Villette present their next large scale concert featuring New York tenor saxophonist Jerry Weldon!

Weldon is a musical titan and veteran of the NY jazz scene. Joining the front line, also on tenor sax, is the one and only Cory Weeds. Weeds is a huge inspiration for Busheikin/Villette as both a music promoter and musician. He is often regarded as "the hardest working man in jazz business". Weeds often brings world class talent to play in Vancouver and gives Busheikin/Villette the opportunity to present these acts on the island. This concert is no exception and will feature music from Weeds and Weldon's 2025 album "Cory Weeds Meets Jerry Weldon".

Jerry Weldon is one of today's leading proponents of Soul Jazz who represents the 'bar-walkin', hard-blowing, tenor legends in our contemporary American Jazz scene. Weldon, who is New York born-and-raised musician, became a charter member and featured soloist in Harry Connick Jr.'s newly formed big band in 1990. He was seen daily on Connick’s daytime television program HARRY throughout its two-year run. In 2025 the two saxophonists went into the studio and recorded Cory Weeds Meets Jerry Weldon. The album spent over 19 weeks on the JazzWeek Charts and received numerous 4-5 star reviews! If you've never seen Jerry Weldon in action, he is NOT to be missed!

Cory Weeds is an expressive saxophonist with a warm and impactful sound rooted in jazz tradition. Jazz aficionados know that Cory, when playing tenor or alto sax, conveys an unerring sense of swing. Recording more than 20 albums as a leader that document his dynamic saxophone playing on both hard-swinging tunes and gentle ballads, he has shared stages and recording studios with the likes of Bill Charlap, Joey DeFrancesco, Champian Fulton, Jeff Hamilton, Harold Mabern, Roy McCurdy, Brad Turner, and many other high-level artists. He’s a fearless musician who embraces a broad range of playing situations and then delivers with performances that shine.

The Band:
Jerry Weldon - Tenor Saxophone
Cory Weeds - Tenor Saxophone
John Lee - Piano
Kosma Busheikin - Upright Bass
Graham Villette - Drums

“Busheikin/Villette Presents” is a monthly jazz concert series that brings the best in live jazz straight to Nanaimo. As longtime friends and musical collaborators, the curators of this series, drummer Graham Villette and bassist Kosma Busheikin wanted to create an experience for the community of Nanaimo. As they join forces with local and visiting artists, their mission is to bring great music and unforgettable nights to the many jazz lovers of Nanaimo.

Busheikin/Villette present their next large scale concert featuring New York tenor saxophonist Jerry Weldon! Weldon is a musical titan and veteran of the NY jazz scene. Joining the front line, also on tenor sax, is the one and only Cory Weeds. Weeds is a huge inspiration for Busheikin/Villette as both a music promoter and musician. He is often regarded as "the hardest working man in jazz business". Weeds often brings world class talent to play in Vancouver and gives Busheikin/Villette the opportunity to present these acts on the island. This concert is no exception and will feature music from Weeds and Weldon's 2025 album "Cory Weeds Meets Jerry Weldon".

The Band:
Jerry Weldon - Tenor Saxophone
Cory Weeds - Tenor Saxophone
John Lee - Piano
Kosma Busheikin - Upright Bass
Graham Villette - Drums

“Busheikin/Villette Presents” is a monthly jazz concert series that brings the best in live jazz straight to Nanaimo. As longtime friends and musical collaborators, the curators of this series, drummer Graham Villette and bassist Kosma Busheikin wanted to create an experience for the community of Nanaimo. As they join forces with local and visiting artists, their mission is to bring great music and unforgettable nights to the many jazz lovers of Nanaimo.

TICKETS:
https://www.porttheatre.com/events/cory-weeds-meets-jerry-weldon-2026/?dm_i=7SIN,428O,1KD273,KOUY,1,0,0,0

“MUSIC AT THE MUSEUM” is excited to open our summer concert series with the return of Brandon Isaak. With nearly four decades devoted to his craft, Brandon Isaak brings a lifetime of experience, passion, and authenticity to the stage. A true storyteller and keeper of the blues tradition, his performances are driven by lyrics that are at once humorous, introspective, and deeply spiritual. Whether you’re a longtime blues fan or just discovering the genre, seeing Brandon Isaak live is more than a concert—it’s a journey into the heart and soul of blues music. Join us for an evening of rich storytelling, masterful musicianship, and timeless sound.

Whether you're a lifelong blues enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, experiencing Brandon Isaak live is an unforgettable journey into the heart and soul of blues music. Performing solo, duo or backed by a powerhouse band, Isaak’s shows are rooted in the blues tradition—one part celebration, one part confession, all heart. “I’m not trying to reinvent the blues,” he says. “I’m just doing what it’s always done — telling stories, sharing truths, and keeping the fire burning for the people.”
"I believe Brandon is one of Canada’s most talented roots and blues artists today." -Holger Petersen / CBC’s Saturday Night Blues
"Brandon certainly delivers the goods on this one, a great mix of original styles and mood all delivered with solid, soulful sophistication. The real goods. Thanks, brother." -Jim Byrnes

Latest Accolades
2026 American Blues Music Award Nominations
– International Blues Album of the Year
2026 Blues Foundation Award Nomination
– Best Self-Produced Album
 
https://www.brandonisaak.ca/ 

TICKETS:
https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/music-the-museum-presents-brandon-isaak-tickets-1986173832399?aff=oddtdtcreator

Nanaimo’s ‘Keep Right Band’ have a new home in Nanaimo’s most popular special events venue — The Green Olive right beside the Old City Station Pub in downtown Nanaimo. Join them most Thursday evenings for energetic jazz tunes in an informal atmosphere with a great vibe. Help grow Nanaimo’s newest home for live jazz! Plenty of parking, easy access, a warm and comfy space… and you can order off the Old City Station Pub menu! No admission, no cover, no minimums, no excuses — see you there!

Finally, live entertainment joins the ocean view at one of Nanaimo’s finest restaurants - The View in the Dorchester Hotel. Chill jazz, great food, fine vibe, seaside setting, super service! Make a reservation for friends and family and we’ll see you there. Order off the menu, only a $10 cover, brunch bevvies — check out the menu and make the call - 6 Sundays in a row this spring. The entertainment lineup will change weekly!

https://www.theviewnanaimo.ca/

the always musically uplifting Ryan Oliver is due in Nanaimo, June 14th, 7:30pm at the Simonhollt Restaurant with a superb Quartet featuring Ryan (saxes and playful banter ), Dr. Tony Genge (organ), Ken Lister and from Vancouver, the great Joe Poole.

Ryan will be playing new music from his upcoming album.

Juno nominated Ryan is well known for his national and international musical history, having engaged audiences in Amsterdam, New York and numerous other venues as alumnus of the Shuffle Demons. Once heard never forgotten!

Tickets are $30.00 (students, NIJFA subscribers and Quadwrangle Regulars $25.00) available from Simonholt (250) 933-3338, or online HERE

All the proceeds from ticket sales goes to the band. Many thanks for your help and support!

Join us for A Jazz Jubilee in two successive, and different, concerts! Andrew Homzy and his NOLA NightHawks channel the spirit of legendary and innovative NOLA musicians. The Band: Clarinet: Rachel Fuller, Baritone Sax: Rod Alsop; Trumpets: Derrick Milton and Greg Bush; Trombones: Darren Nilsson and Paul Nuez; Drums: Adam Robertson; Bass: Drake Shoemaker; Guitar: Brad Shipley.
Saturday’s Show - Emma Alsop on Vocals. Sundqy’s Show - Kyle Sheppard on Vocals.

TICKETS: $35 each show. $60 for both shows. $25 Students
Available from LadsymithMuiscalArts.com

Finally, live entertainment joins the ocean view at one of Nanaimo’s finest restaurants - The View in the Dorchester Hotel. Chill jazz, great food, fine vibe, seaside setting, super service! Make a reservation for friends and family and we’ll see you there. Order off the menu, only a $10 cover, brunch bevvies — check out the menu and make the call - 6 Sundays in a row this spring. The entertainment lineup will change weekly!

https://www.theviewnanaimo.ca/

Join us for A Jazz Jubilee in two successive, and different, concerts! Andrew Homzy and his NOLA NightHawks channel the spirit of legendary and innovative NOLA musicians. The Band: Clarinet: Rachel Fuller, Baritone Sax: Rod Alsop; Trumpets: Derrick Milton and Greg Bush; Trombones: Darren Nilsson and Paul Nuez; Drums: Adam Robertson; Bass: Drake Shoemaker; Guitar: Brad Shipley.
Saturday’s Show - Emma Alsop on Vocals. Sundqy’s Show - Kyle Sheppard on Vocals.

TICKETS: $35 each show. $60 for both shows. $25 Students
Available from LadsymithMuiscalArts.com

Nanaimo’s ‘Keep Right Band’ have a new home in Nanaimo’s most popular special events venue — The Green Olive right beside the Old City Station Pub in downtown Nanaimo. Join them most Thursday evenings for energetic jazz tunes in an informal atmosphere with a great vibe. Help grow Nanaimo’s newest home for live jazz! Plenty of parking, easy access, a warm and comfy space… and you can order off the Old City Station Pub menu! No admission, no cover, no minimums, no excuses — see you there!

Finally, live entertainment joins the ocean view at one of Nanaimo’s finest restaurants - The View in the Dorchester Hotel. Chill jazz, great food, fine vibe, seaside setting, super service! Make a reservation for friends and family and we’ll see you there. Order off the menu, only a $10 cover, brunch bevvies — check out the menu and make the call - 6 Sundays in a row this spring. The entertainment lineup will change weekly!

https://www.theviewnanaimo.ca/

We are thrilled to be celebrating our 20th anniversary with Christine and Ingrid Jensen on June 5 at Jazz Affair 2026. Joining them are Phil Dwyer, John Lee, and Ben Dwyer, with an opening set by the Wellington Jazz Academy - it's going to be an amazing show.

Join us? All proceeds from this event benefit jazz music education in Nanaimo. We are grateful to the City of Nanaimo for their continued support in bringing these artists back to Nanaimo! General admission tickets go on sale April 10.

Are you a subscriber? Check your inbox for earlybird access starting today! It's not too late to join our mailing list at friendsofnanaimojazzsociety.org.

Want to win 2 tickets? Like and share our post and tag a friend before April 3.

If you or your business would like to sponsor this event, please send us a message!

#nanaimo #nanaimojazz #nanaimoartsandculture #nanaimomusic #downtownnanaimo #tourismnanaimo #nanaimoevents

Nanaimo’s ‘Keep Right Band’ have a new home in Nanaimo’s most popular special events venue — The Green Olive right beside the Old City Station Pub in downtown Nanaimo. Join them most Thursday evenings for energetic jazz tunes in an informal atmosphere with a great vibe. Help grow Nanaimo’s newest home for live jazz! Plenty of parking, easy access, a warm and comfy space… and you can order off the Old City Station Pub menu! No admission, no cover, no minimums, no excuses — see you there!