WATCH: On International Jazz Day Kelowna just loves it

• The program allows musicians to express their creativity in a welcoming environment, experimenting with different songs along the way.
• Space is inviting for new players to take the stage and gain experience.

It's International Jazz Day Saturday, April 30.

As a special treat a Jazz Jam will be held at the Rotary Centre for the Arts. It runs from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m. Then the Craig Thomson Quartet will perform from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Jazz is well established in Kelowna. In case you missed it, here's a story we had previously on Kelowna10 reflecting a weekly offering at the centre.

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Every Thursday, jazz enthusiasts of all ages gather at the Rotary Centre for the Arts to enjoy an evening of drinks, entertainment, and, well, jazz.

Jamming on stage, musicians of all skill levels collaborate to give soulful performances.

“I like to think of the jam mostly as an opportunity for pros and students, amateurs, everybody to be able to mix together and make music in a public venue in front of an audience,” saxophone player and host of Jazz Jam, Craig Thomson told Kelowna10.

The program was initially formed to provide students an opportunity to gain more experience on stage.

“[It] could be over 100 hours a year if the students are here every single week, which is roughly 50 times what the average band program will provide to a student.”

The program allows musicians to express their creativity in a welcoming environment, experimenting with different songs along the way.

“Jazz is a different kind of expression,” Stephen Buck, host and saxophone/bass player, said. “You make up your own parts... and all the songs that musicians have written over the years are great vehicles to improvise on. I just really enjoy the music.”

Jazz Jam had a small break due to the pandemic, but is once again playing live in front of audiences again.

“We are back now, [and] we are excited to be playing again. There’s lots of players coming out,” added Buck.

With musicians of all backgrounds and capabilities welcome to participate, it makes it a very inviting space for new players to take the stage and gain experience.

“I encourage anyone - whether an amateur, professional, beginner, or seasoned pro, you’re all welcome,” Buck said. “Just come up and say hello, introduce yourself, and I’ll make sure you get a chance to play a song.”

Jazz Jam is admission by donation and takes place every Thursday from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.