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The sound of jazz will once again fill the streets, venues and public spaces of Katikati, Tauranga and Mount Maunganui when the Port of Tauranga National Jazz Festival returns to celebrate its extraordinary milestone of 63 years.

Festival director Marc Anderson said the longevity of the festival reflects the enduring appeal of live music and the power it has to bring people together.

“For more than six decades, the festival has been a vibrant expression of music, creativity and community,” Anderson said. “It’s filled with talented musicians, enthusiastic audiences and the unmistakable spirit of celebration that jazz inspires.”

Across the 11-day celebration from March 27 to April 6, audiences can expect a diverse programme of concerts, performances and special events.

The Katikati Jazz Street Festival – a week ahead of Easter – sets the tone, with the popular Uptown Downtown programme filling bars, restaurants and hospitality venues across Tauranga and Mount Maunganui with jazz, blues, funk and soul over Easter weekend. Good Friday’s Jazz Village at The Historic Village brings a lively New Orleans-style atmosphere.

A festival highlight is the Baycourt Concert Series at Baycourt Community & Arts Centre, which will showcase an impressive mix of international and local talent.

Inspiring musicians young and old is the 48^th Wright Family Foundation National Youth Jazz Competition, which will take place from March 30 to April 1 at Baycourt.

The festival will also feature a lively mix of outdoor performances, concerts and late-night events, ensuring there is something for everyone – from dedicated music lovers to those simply looking to soak up the festival atmosphere. For more information, go to www.jazz.org.nz