An Opening Night for the Ages
Aretha Franklin, Dave Brubeck, a King St. Party & much more!

 

Toronto - The TD Toronto Jazz Festival will be descending upon the Entertainment District for an opening night like this city has never seen. Queen of Soul, Aretha Franklin will kick off the Festival's 25th year with a FREE concert at Metro Square, Friday, June 24, 9:30pm, presented by OLG.


Opening act Jordon John & The Blues Angels will get the party started at 8:30pm in the Mainstage Marquee with their bluesy, roots signature sound to warm up the crowd for the much anticipated Ms. Franklin.  This concert will have limited capacity. Wristbands will be distributed at 4 p.m. on a first come, first serve basis. Two 12x8 ft. LED screens will also be onsite so one and all can enjoy this unprecedented Toronto performance.

Tyler Yarema & His Rhythm will have the last word, gracing the outdoor stage at 11pm for yet another FREE show.  Juno award-winning singer and piano powerhouse, Yarema will take to the streets for the ultimate opening night party, presented by Alma Records.

Jazz legend Dave Brubeck will also help to ring in the 25th Festival season with a performance at Koerner Hall, June 24, 8:00pm, presented by Panasonic.  With a career that spans over six decades and a bona fide Festival favourite, Brubeck is always welcomed back to Toronto with open arms… and a sold out show.

To truly celebrate the evening in style, King Street West will be closed between Simcoe Street and John Street between the hours of 8:00pm - 1:00am.  What would an anniversary commemoration be without a street party for all of the Festival's closest friends?

The 2011 TD Toronto Jazz Festival is sure to be bigger and better this year with 350 concerts, 1,500 musicians, 40 locations and 500,000 people all jammed into 10 eventful days. Do not miss the chance to listen to local, national and international talent playing a diverse range of genres in the heart of the city, The Entertainment District. Celebrate this anniversary in style!

For more information visit www.torontojazz.com