The Colombo Jazz and Blues festival 

Yesterday the grounds of the Galle Face Hotel were transformed into a cool and fun music venue, where Mainstage Events hosted the first ever Colombo Jazz and Blues Festival. Tickets sold out and the amazingly picturesque, seaside stage was surrounded by families, friends and adults all enjoying the wonderful variety of performers.

Throughout the day and into the evening, the audience was treated to an incredible line-up with each artist displaying their own personal take on the genre of Jazz and Blues. 

From Jerome Speldewinde’s classic big swing Jazz, to Andaya Jiya’s RnB twist there was something there for everyone. The audience was introduced to some highly talented global musicians, such as country-jazz legend Michael Roach as well as some fantastic South African artists: Sannie Fox, Duduzile Makhoba and Musa Mashiane.  It was clear these artists love to perform and they were brilliant at interacting with the crowd.

Music may have been the centre of the day but there was also an extravagant array of food and drink, anything from oysters and champagne to delicious picnic hampers filled with wine, cheeses and cold meats. In another area the pop-up Colombo Design Market had set up shop and there was a great selection of vendors. It was lovely to see people of all ages enjoying the festival and what a wonderful way to spend a Sunday.