It’s back! The Malta Jazz Festival 2016 is upon us (21-23 July) and with as stellar line up as at any of its previous 20 years plus editions. The heat is on, the stage is in its favourite, familiar venue down by Grand Harbour at Ta’Liesse. The crowd will be the regular mix of locals and island visitors. For many of us locals, the Jazz Festival is a welcome al fresco date in the calender and a chance to bump into old friends we’ve not seen since the last edition of Malta Jazz.
The success of the event is the sum of numerous parts: a line up that draws the greats of the jazz circuit; the sultry warmth of a perfect Mediterranean summer night; the magical backdrop of unparalleled history and harbour views; and of course, the great conversation that flows in the intervals over a few beers. But what of this year’s artists?
Malta Jazz Festival 2016, Programme
In the spirit of the forthcoming Valletta, European Capital of Culture 2018 year, this year’s jazz festival sees the event spread around the city. The midday concerts happening during the 19th to the 23rd of July are being introduced as part of this summer’s Fringe, and are free of charge.
Full details of the artists over on Malta Jazz.
Fri, Jul 22, 2016 8:00pm / Sat, Jul 23, 2016 12:00am
The Fringe Youth Jazz Ensemble (2nd edition)
Marcus Roberts Trio
Bill Evans Band feat. Dean Brown, Darryl Jones & Dennis Chambers
Sat, Jul 23, 2016, 8:00pm / Sun, Jul 24, 2016 12:00am
Dominic Galea – The UK Connection
Omer Avital Quintet
Snarky Puppy
Tickets
A bit pricier than previous years, but still good value. Ticket can be bought online or at the door.
€30 for a single day ticket – seated (reserved)
€50 for a 2 day block ticket – seated (reserved)
€20 for single day ticket – standing (free seating will be available)
€35 for a 2 day block ticket – standing (free seating will be available)
How to Get there:
By public transport: all buses lead to Valletta. Ta’ Liesse is a pleasant 10 minute walk from the bus terminus
By car: Parking in Valletta after 6pm is free. But get there early. Either park in the centre of Valletta and walk down or by one the perimiter roads.
By boat: Catch the ferry from Sliema to Marsamxett. Then walk around St Elmo and the Mediterranean Conference Centre, and you’re on your way.