The Montreal International Jazz Festival announced its full program for the 45th edition, set to run from June 26 to July 5, 2025. The 10-day event will feature more than 350 concerts across downtown Montreal, with approximately two-thirds offered free of charge.
This year’s festival coincides with what would have been Oscar Peterson’s centennial, with several events dedicated to the legendary Montreal pianist. A highlight includes the Oscar Peterson Centennial Gala featuring the Canadiana Suite at Maison symphonique, while a free exhibition called “Through Oscar’s Lens” will display rare photographs taken by Peterson himself.
The lineup represents a mix of established artists and emerging talents. Grammy-winning vocalist Samara Joy, who performed at the festival early in her career, returns to headline at Maison symphonique. Other notable performers include Dianne Reeves, Esperanza Spalding, and Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue.
“After 45 years, this event, a crossroads between the local and international scenes, still knows how to reinvent itself,” said Maurin Auxéméry, the festival’s programming director.
This year also features an increased focus on guitarists, with performances by Australian fingerstyle specialist Tommy Emmanuel and genre-defying artist Yasmin Williams. The festival continues its tradition of showcasing unusual collaborations, including a special performance bringing together Nate Smith, Lalah Hathaway, James Francies, and Derrick Hodge.
For those interested in film, the festival will screen several movies featuring scores by Quincy Jones, including “In Cold Blood,” “The Wiz,” and “The Color Purple” at Cinéma du Parc.
TD Bank Group returns as the presenting sponsor for the 15th consecutive year and has committed to another four-year partnership. Rio Tinto continues as a collaborating sponsor, a relationship that began in 2006.
Tickets for paid concerts go on sale April 17, with newsletter subscribers gaining early access on April 16. Festival organizers have indicated that additional artists will be announced in the coming weeks.
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