Previous Years at Brecon Jazz Festival
Our History
The Brecon Jazz Festival began in 1984 as a bold vision to bring world-class jazz to the picturesque market town of Brecon, nestled in the heart of the Brecon Beacons National Park. The idea was simple but ambitious: to create a platform where jazz lovers and talented musicians could gather and celebrate the vibrant diversity of the genre.
What started as a small, grassroots event quickly gained momentum, drawing attention not only from the UK but also internationally. The inaugural festival featured a mix of traditional jazz styles and contemporary influences, setting the tone for the eclectic program that would become its hallmark. With enthusiastic audiences and a growing reputation, the festival became an annual highlight, attracting jazz greats such as Humphrey Lyttelton, George Melly, and Stan Tracey in its early years.
As the festival grew, so did its influence. By the 1990s, Brecon Jazz had established itself as one of Europe’s premier jazz events, regularly hosting renowned acts like Cleo Laine, Van Morrison, and Wynton Marsalis. Yet, it never lost sight of its mission to nurture emerging talent, providing a stage for up-and-coming artists to shine alongside established legends.
Today, nearly four decades later, the Brecon Jazz Festival remains a cornerstone of the UK’s jazz scene, celebrated for its rich history, world-class line-ups, and welcoming community spirit. It’s a festival that has grown in scale and ambition while staying true to its roots: a love of jazz, a commitment to excellence, and a deep connection to its stunning Welsh setting.
For 2025, a new team of local volunteers is bringing a fresh approach. The Team are adopting some of the popular elements of past festivals while working closely with everyone in the town of Brecon to widen the appeal and diversity of the performers and audience.