Our Projects & Priorities
Jazz East Rising focuses on developing, encouraging and building the next generation of musicians and music lovers.
Jazz Labs are FREE programs, suitable for all ages, offering a behind-the-scenes look at making music that includes artist talks, master classes, and interactive concerts. Jazz Labs are part of the Halifax Jazz Festivals Music Education Program.
JAZZ LABS
Over 60% of our festival programming is free for all to attend. This includes our day time shows on the main stage, and evening free concert, and various stages across HRM during the festival.
HJF also programs other concerts and events through the year, free to attendees.
FREE PROGRAMMING
An 8-day intensive program where the ensemble is the classroom and improvisation is more than a style, it’s a path for learning. Find out more about this program here.
CREATIVE MUSIC WORKSHOP
Our Stories
A Stage for the Next Generation
When Steven Hartlen talks about music, it’s with the conviction of someone who has seen first-hand how a single performance can change a young musician’s life.
Building HJF began nearly 40 years ago
Nearly forty years ago, the foundation of what would become the Halifax Jazz Festival was just beginning to form.