Mark Your Calendars for September 24th to 28th
Jazz at the Red Farm: The 12th Annual
Cape Breton Jazz Festival
Experience the Rhythms of some of Canada's Top Jazz Talent.
All performances held at the Red Farm in Howie Center, 1957 Kings Rd
Special Guests: Natalie Renault Quartet
Nathalie Renault is an accomplished Acadian jazz pianist and vocalist from Campbellton, New Brunswick. She holds a Bachelor of Music and a university certificate in jazz, and has toured extensively across Quebec, New Brunswick and Europe, garnering attention for her warm, expressive performances.
Her Quartet brings together a tight-knit ensemble featuring
Nathalie Renault - Composer, Piano, Vocals, Julien Breau - Double Bass, Clinton Fernandes - Drums and Leo Rafael - Saxophone.
With this configuration, the group explores a heartfelt blend of standards, original compositions, and Francophone jazz-pop, rooted in Renault’s Acadian heritage but colored with a contemporary sensibility.
The Natalie Renault Quartet is celebrated for its approachable yet sophisticated sound, marked by Renault’s lyrical piano lines, soothing vocals, and the ensemble’s responsive interplay. Their music balances tradition and innovation: soulful renditions of familiar tunes sit effortlessly alongside fresh originals, all tied together with Renault’s deep connection to her cultural roots and vibrant live presence.
Event Schedule
All shows are at the Red Farm in Howie Center
WED
SEPT
24th
6:30
Michelle Stephens Trio
Michelle - Vocals and Piano.
Red Mike MacDonald - Bass
Ron Leadbeater - Drums
Marcel Aucoin and Friends
Marcel Aucoin - Piano
James Munro - Trombone
Ron Leadbeater - Drums
Red Mike MacDonald - Bass
The Daniels Crew
The gang from the Friday Night Jazz
THU
SEPT
25th
6:30
Those Guys
Ian Aker, Vocals, Sax
Ron Lafitte, Vocals, guitar
Doug Johnson, vocals, bass
East Coast Jazz All Stars
Carl Getto and Young Guys
FRI
SEPT
26th
6:30
The Back Pack
Jeff Shaw - Vocals, Sax
Viktor Dujandzic - Vocals, guitar, loops
Steve Luxton - vocals, guitar
Ed Woodsworth - bass
Serenaders of Swing
Charlolette MacDonald - Vocals
Viktor Dujandzic - Vocals, guitar, loops
Steve Luxton - vocals, guitar
Ed Woodsworth - bass
Ron Leadbeater - Drums
SAT
SEPT
27th
7:00
Natalie Renault Quartet
Nathalie Renault - Piano, Vocals
Julien Breau - Double Bass
Clinton Fernandes - Drums
Leo Rafael - Saxophone
SUN
SEPT
28th
4:00
Matt Nicholson and Carl Getto Quartet
Nathalie Renault - Piano, Vocals
Julien Breau - Double Bass
Clinton Fernandes - Drums
Leo Rafael - Saxophone
Barnful of Blues
Janet Bickerton, Shelley Allen, Jo-Anne Rolls,
Mark Macqueen - Piano, organ
Ron Lafitte - Guitar
Duncan Wells - Guitar, harmonica
Brian Martin - Bass
Ron Leadbeater - Drums
Jon Hines Trio
Jon Hines - Vocals, Guitar
Join us for the 11th Annual Cape Breton Jazz Festival, an unforgettable gathering in Howie Center, Nova Scotia, located just outside Sydney, Nova Scotia on Cape Breton Island. The event is tailor-made for jazz enthusiasts and those who love music. Organized with passion, this festival brings together some of Canada's top jazz players for a series of performances that promise not only entertainment but a deep connection to the rhythms of jazz. Whether you're a die-hard jazz fan or simply looking to experience something new, this festival is for you.
The 12th Annual Cape Breton Jazz Festival, taking place September 24-28, 2025, in Sydney, Nova Scotia, is an immersive experience into the world of jazz. Hosted in various iconic locations around Sydney, the festival features performances from Canada’s top jazz artists, including Ella Harmon, Miles Groove, and Diana Crescendo. Attendees will be taken on a musical journey, from soulful sessions to the exhilarating finale.
This year's Cape Breton Jazz Festival offers a unique, hands-on experience unlike any other. From basic jazz appreciation to deep dives into the genre's intricate techniques, attendees will witness a transformation in their understanding of jazz music. Don't miss our Special All Access pass, granting you exclusive access to a week of unforgettable performances and the chance to mingle with the artists.
Meet Our Stellar Lineup of Performers
Our lineup features jazz luminaries like Angela Verbrugge, Matt Nicholson, Jon Hines and Joe Waye, each with their own unique style and accolades. Their performances are not just shows, but masterclasses in jazz. Attendees will be treated to a rich tapestry of jazz history and innovation, making each note played a reason to listen.
Natalie Renault Quartet
Those Guys
Jon Hines
Joe Waye
Don't Miss the Ultimate Jazz Experience of the Year!
Exclusive Performances: Witness live performances by Canada’s jazz greats. Experience the magic of jazz in a way that recordings simply cannot capture.
Masterclasses in Jazz: Learn from the masters themselves. Each performance is a lesson in jazz history, improvisation, and technique.
Unforgettable Atmosphere: Immerse yourself in the vibrant jazz scene of Cape Breton, Nova Scotia. The festival’s unique venue contributes to an unforgettable experience.
Networking Opportunities: Meet fellow jazz enthusiasts, artists, and industry insiders. Make connections that last a lifetime.
Discover New Talent: Be among the first to hear up-and-coming jazz artists. Discover your new favorite musician.
Cultural Enrichment: Delve into the rich cultural tapestry that jazz music weaves. Explore its roots and impact on contemporary music.
Family-Friendly Options: Enjoy jazz in a way that’s suitable for all ages. There’s something for everyone at our festival.
Exclusive Festival Merchandise: Take home a piece of the festival with exclusive merchandise. Remember your experience with unique souvenirs.
Are you ready to immerse yourself in the world of jazz?
Join us for a week-long celebration of jazz that promises unforgettable performances and enriching experiences. Don’t miss out!
© Cape Breton Jazz Festival 2025