Photo: Supplied.
Dads and music lovers of all ages are in for a toe-tapping Father’s Day celebration next month with smooth saxophones, swinging brass and lively jazz rhythms set to fill the air when the annual Wynnum Manly Jazz and Swing Festival returns to George Clayton Park.
Held from 10:30am to 4:00pm on Sunday, September 6, this free community event will bring families together for a fun-filled day of live music, dancing and picnic lunches by the bay at Manly.
Event manager Paul Jones said audiences could look forward to a packed program of performances, featuring some of the region’s most talented musicians.
“The day will start with the Wynnum State High School Jazz Band, followed by the Queensland Show Band, the Royal Australian Navy Band Queensland, Galapagos Duck, who are one of Australia’s best-known jazz bands, and Brisbane jazz group Musical Chairs,” he said.
“Each band will play a 50-minute set, giving the audience the chance to experience a wide range of musical styles throughout the day.
“Jazz has really evolved since it first began – it’s become much swingier and more upbeat, making it really fun to listen to and dance to.”
Adding to the atmosphere, dancers from the Empire Swing Dance School will perform in front of the stage, bringing plenty of energy and movement to the festival.
Due to feedback from past attendees, Paul said the festival will finish slightly earlier this year to allow families to continue their Father’s Day celebrations.
“People told us they loved coming to the festival but often had dinner plans booked afterwards to celebrate dad, so we made the decision to finish earlier to give families the chance to enjoy both,” he said.
Visitors are encouraged to bring sunscreen, hats, water, a picnic rug or chairs, and settle in for the day, with food trucks also available offering meals, snacks and drinks.
The festival is hosted by the Queensland Services Heritage Band Association – a community teaching organisation that supports aspiring musicians in learning and performing.
For more information and event updates, visit the Wynnum Manly Jazz and Swing Festival Facebook page. George Clayton Park is located at 55 Upper Esplanade, Manly.
