MUSICIANS from across the country have brought some funk to Tasmania for the annual Devonport Jazz Festival.
Trombones, saxophones, double bass' and even an accordion got audiences in the groove on Saturday with a host of performances in the Devonport CBD, including a free public show.
The festival, which runs from July 28 to 31, has drawn big crowds. Many events have sold out or been left with standing room only.
Pianist Peter Locke has performed at the Devonport Jazz Festival a number of times and delights to see how it unites the community.
“I like the fact that the town that gets behind it. When you come here you feel like everyone’s trying to help you, so it’s a lovely feeling to come here,” said Mr Locke.
“It’s certainly one of the best festivals in Australia.”
To me the essence of jazz is swing, it is an infectious music from that viewpoint.
- Jazz pianist Peter Locke
He thinks jazz is a unique and uplifting art form.
“As a music it’s got everything in it. It’s got the improvisation, its got the harmonics and its an exploratory music,” said Mr Locke.
The festival, which features some headline artists like award winning artist Emma Pask, continues on Sunday.
