Canada’s annual Montreal Jazz Festival runs June 26–July 5 and brings a vibrant, diverse lineup of international stars and rising talent. The program mixes genres and settings, from large outdoor stages to intimate theater performances, offering something for every jazz lover and music fan.
One standout evening is June 30, when the duo Rodrigo y Gabriela fuse heavy-metal intensity with flamenco flair in an acoustic guitar showcase that highlights rapid-fire picking and fiery rhythms. Canada Day, July 1, features festival debutantes Huey Lewis and the News, while July 2 includes a performance by singer-songwriter Bobby Bazini accompanied by special guest keyboardist and Rock and Roll Hall of Famer Booker T. Jones.
Also on July 2, acclaimed vocalist Madeleine Peyroux takes the stage at Theatre Maisonneuve with her intimate, jazz-inflected repertoire. That same day South African pianist Abdullah Ibrahim appears solo at the cozy Gesù theater, offering a personal and reflective set that showcases his long career and distinctive blend of jazz and African influences.
The festival lineup also features trumpet virtuoso Chris Botti, renowned for his lyrical tone and crossover appeal; master guitarist Al di Meola, known for his technical prowess and world-music influences; and the legendary Steve Miller Band, bringing classic rock and blues-infused hits. Jazz fusion and progressive players include The Stanley Clarke Band and The Bad Plus, while saxophonist Joshua Redman and pianist-singer Jamie Cullum represent contemporary jazz’s creative edge.
Guitarist Steven Wilson presents two performances, giving fans multiple chances to hear his nuanced, genre-spanning material. American blues-rock singer Beth Hart returns to the festival to perform selections from her album Better Than Home, delivering powerful vocals and emotionally charged interpretations.
Across its run, the Montreal Jazz Festival balances big-name draws with intimate shows, creating a varied schedule that appeals to both casual listeners and dedicated music aficionados. Attendees can expect polished headline sets, collaborative projects, and quieter solo recitals in smaller venues—each contributing to the festival’s reputation as one of the world’s premier summer music events.