Gregory Porter makes surprise appearance at Cork Jazz Festival launch

The 46th edition of the festival has kicked off, with 100,000 people expected to attend over the weekend

Grammy-winning jazz artist Gregory Porter made a special appearance at the Opening Night of the Guinness Cork Jazz Festival.

The 46th annual Guinness Cork Jazz Festival officially kicked off on Thursday evening, with an opening event at the 85 Years of Blue Note Exhibition at St Peters.

Festival headliner Gregory Porter even made a surprise appearance at the launch event, which took place just ahead of his performance at Cork Opera House.

The launch event, attended by 150 festival supporters marked the start of Ireland’s biggest jazz celebration, with five days of world-class music, soul, and exciting performances to come.

This year’s Guinness Cork Jazz Festival features world-class international jazz greats mixed with rising Irish talent and artists, with 100,000 attendees expected over the weekend.

Performers such as Gregory Porter, Mary Coughlan, Buena Vista All Stars, Les Amazones d’Afrique, and Le Boom feature alongside Hot Chip, Kean Kavanagh, Gaby Moreno, the X Collective, among many others throughout the five days.

Grammy-winning jazz artist Gregory Porter headlines at the Cork Opera House for the Guinness Cork Jazz Festival. Picture: Darragh Kane

Grammy-winning jazz artist Gregory Porter even made a special appearance at the launch event ahead of his sold-out show at Cork Opera House.

The festival will witness over 500 artists performing over 100 events across 99 venues over the weekend.

MC Stevie G said, “It’s not just music, it’s a €45m boost to our local economy.” 

Colin Kenny, Head of Commercial South West, Diageo Ireland, sponsors of the festival described this year’s programme as one that “continues to push boundaries and attract world-class talent”.

He also thanked the festival committee, chaired by Fiona Collins, for their dedication in organizing the iconic Big Fringe, which will feature free jazz performances all weekend on the streets of Cork.

“The possibilities are endless for the Guinness Cork Jazz Festival. We’re committed to its success and making it one of the best music festivals in Europe.” 

With the festival now officially underway, attendees can look forward to a packed schedule of performances, including headline shows, street performances, pub jazz trails, and unique experiences like the Jazz Boat.

Tickets are on sale at www.guinnesscorkjazz.com, which is packed with all the information and latest news.