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


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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.

 

Whether performing in intimate jazz clubs or regional festivals, the Quartet is noted for creating an engaging, heartfelt atmosphere, bringing Acadian flair to the jazz stage and captivating audiences with both technical finesse and genuine warmth. 




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Event Schedule

All shows are at the Red Farm in Howie Center


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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.


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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.


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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.


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Natalie Renault Quartet

 


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Those Guys


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Jon Hines


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Joe Waye


Don't Miss the Ultimate Jazz Experience of the Year!


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Exclusive Performances: Witness live performances by Canada’s jazz greats. Experience the magic of jazz in a way that recordings simply cannot capture.


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Masterclasses in Jazz: Learn from the masters themselves. Each performance is a lesson in jazz history, improvisation, and technique.


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Unforgettable Atmosphere: Immerse yourself in the vibrant jazz scene of Cape Breton, Nova Scotia. The festival’s unique venue contributes to an unforgettable experience.


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Networking Opportunities: Meet fellow jazz enthusiasts, artists, and industry insiders. Make connections that last a lifetime.


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Discover New Talent: Be among the first to hear up-and-coming jazz artists. Discover your new favorite musician.


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Cultural Enrichment: Delve into the rich cultural tapestry that jazz music weaves. Explore its roots and impact on contemporary music.


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Family-Friendly Options: Enjoy jazz in a way that’s suitable for all ages. There’s something for everyone at our festival.


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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!



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© Cape Breton Jazz Festival 2025