Manly will come alive this Spring with the big brassy sounds of Australia’s longest-running jazz festival, with the program announced for the return of Manly Jazz.

Held from Friday 23 to Sunday 25 September, the three-day music festival will feature renowned artists including Dan Barnett, one of Australia's most respected singers, trombonists and bandleaders, Blues guitarist Ray Beadle, Jazz violinist, and vocalist George Washingmachine, and the Bob Barnard Tribute Band, paying tribute to the iconic jazz legend who passed away earlier this year.

“After a two-year hiatus due to the pandemic, Manly Jazz is back, bigger and better than ever,” Northern Beaches Mayor Michael Regan said.

“Now in its 45th year, Manly Jazz is renowned for its beautiful location, its stellar lineup of musicians, and the festival’s laidback beach vibes.

“Join us as the Corso and surrounding streets and laneways once again come alive to the sound of jazz, blues and roots, swing and much more.

“The festivities kick off on Friday night with Crawfish Po Boys, Cumbiamuffin, and the Horn Dogs which are sure to get everyone moving.”

On the John Speight Stage, you can enjoy Bob Barnard Tribute Band, Ray Beadle Trio, Clayton Doley’s Bayou Billabong, Sydney Youth Jazz Orchestra, Andrew Robertson Big Band, and The Influence – The Stevie Wonder Show.

Over on the Sydney Road stage, you can listen to the George Washingmachine and Friends, Queenie and The Cavaliers, Todd Hardy Sextet, Dan Barnett and Friends, Kate Wadey Quartet, AAA Organ Trio and the Spyglass Gypsies plus much more..

Performing inside St Matt’s Church on the Corso will be Sussudio Big Band, Village Big Band, Dr V’s Swing Thing, Horns Plus Big Band, and the Northside Big Band.

Check out the full program list here

You can witness the next generation of jazz musicians, with stage bands and orchestras from many local schools including Balgowlah Boys, Mackellar Girls, Killarney Heights High, Pittwater High School, Pittwater House, Northern Beaches Secondary College, and Manly Selective High, St Augustine's College, and St Luke’s Grammar.

Artistic director Caroline Speight said the return of Manly Jazz was welcome news for musicians and the community after two challenging years.

“It’s fantastic that we can present three days of live music to celebrate the 45th Manly Jazz after being online for two years,” Ms Speight said. 

“I’m looking forward to Manly coming alive with the sounds and energy of great performances across the weekend.” 

There will also be several in-venue acts at Manly bars, clubs and restaurants to be announced soon plus the Director’s Choice Concert.

For further event updates visit our website or find us on social media @manlyjazz.