The 2025 Taichung Jazz Festival will take place from October 17 to October 26 at Civic Square. In anticipation of this annual grand event, the Taichung City Government’s Cultural Affairs Bureau has organized a “Jazz Tour” series. The first performance will be held on Saturday, August 30, at 4:00 PM at Kebiyi Plaza in the Donghai Arts Shopping District, inviting the public to enjoy a Taichung-exclusive jazz experience amid the gentle late-summer breeze.

The Cultural Affairs Bureau noted that the “Jazz Tour” serves as an important prelude to the Jazz Festival. This year, it uniquely incorporates local characteristics, bringing jazz music into community spaces and allowing residents to experience its charm up close. The performance lineup features Huang Yu-jie Jazz Trio, active in the central Taiwan jazz scene; JazzShip Orchestra, composed of outstanding musicians from central Taiwan; and Midwest Jazz Orchestra, dedicated to promoting jazz culture. From classic swing jazz to innovative arrangements infused with Latin elements, audiences will embark on a rich musical journey. The Cultural Affairs Bureau also noted that the Jazz Tour is organized in collaboration with the Taichung City Government’s Economic Development Bureau, launching the “Donghai Jazz Music & Food Festival” in the Donghai Arts Shopping District. This allows residents to enjoy jazz music within everyday life settings. In addition to the musical feast, the event features a local gourmet market, offering a variety of local delicacies. Visitors can sway along to the melodies while savoring the rich aromas and flavors.

The Cultural Affairs Bureau added that, in addition to the free performances at the Civic Square, the 2025 Taichung Jazz Festival will feature two international ticketed concerts at Taichung Chungshan Hall on October 24 and 25. The performances will showcase the internationally acclaimed jazz vocal group New York Voices and the renowned Japanese jazz band Gentle Forest 5 & Gentle Forest Sisters.

New York Voices, established in 1987, has become one of the world’s most iconic jazz vocal groups, renowned for their smooth arrangements and exceptional harmonies, and has received multiple Grammy Awards. This performance is part of their farewell tour. On the other hand, Gentle Forest 5 & Gentle Forest Sisters is also among Japan’s most distinguished jazz bands, celebrated for their refined swing style and versatile cross-genre creations. These two ticketed concerts will offer audiences a sophisticated music experience, distinct from the outdoor festival performances. Tickets purchased before September 7 are eligible for a 25% early bird discount, and a two-concert package is available at a 35% discount, while supplies last.

For more information, please visit the Taichung City Government’s Cultural Affairs Bureau website (http://www.culture.taichung.gov.tw) or the Taichung Jazz Festival Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/TaichungJazzFestival).