An insider's top picks for Montreal's Jazz Fest
Musician Jean-Michel Pilc distills 1,000 shows down to 5 essentials
The 37th edition of the Montreal International Jazz Festival swings into town on June 29 with jazz aficionados from around the world descending on the city.
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With 1,000 concerts to choose from, local jazz musician and associate professor of jazz at McGill University Jean-Michel Pilc shares his top picks.
What to see
The Avishai Cohen Trio features Israeli double bassist Avishai Cohen along with pianist Omri Mor and drummer Daniel Dor. Saturday, July 2 at 8:00 p.m. at the Monument-National.
Edmar Castaneda is a stand-out harpist who Montrealers will get to see as the opening act for Japanese pianist Hiromi. Thursday, June 30 at 8:00 p.m. at Place des Arts.
Montreal pianist Francois Bourassa is said to be one of the most acclaimed festival regulars. He performs with guests 30 Years in Music. Saturday, July 5 at 9:00 p.m. at L'Astral.
Guitarist Lionel Loueke performs as part of a group of musicians celebrating the 75th anniversary of the record label Blue Note. Friday, July 1 at 8:00 p.m. at Place des Arts.
Bassist Renaud Garcia-Fons joins Dorantes on piano as they play from their album Paseo a dos. Monday, July 4 at 8 p.m. at the Monument-National.
Pilc himself will be performing June 29 and 30 at the Upstairs Jazz Club.
Watch an excerpt of his interview with Jeanette Kelly on CBC Montreal's Cinq à Six.
with files from Cinq à Six