The first wave of artists for Cheltenham Jazz Festival have been announced — and one of the biggest names in jazz is on the lineup for 2025.
Legendary pianist, band leader and broadcaster, Jools Holland, will be bringing Hootenanny vibes to the 2025 event alongside fellow former Squeeze band member, Gilson Lavis — over 10 years since the last time he played at Cheltenham Jazz Festival back in 2014.
Singer-songwriter David Gray makes his Cheltenham Jazz Festival debut, performing songs from his highly-anticipated new album Dear Life alongside hits from his back catalogue.
GRAMMY winner and Mercury Prize nominee, Corinne Bailey Rae is joined by Ronnie Scott's Orchestra for an exclusive show; one of the hottest names in UK jazz, Nubya Garcia, returns to Cheltenham for the first time since her sold-out 2022 show; and Amadou & Mariam bring their unique sound that incorporates funk, reggae, Delta blues and Afro-Cuban jazz to the big top.
The Parabola Arts Centre programme returns in 2025, too, with an exciting lineup of innovative new music spanning big bands to improv duos, programmed by Alex Carr.
Ian George, Cheltenham Festivals co-CEO and head of programming for the Jazz Festival, said: 'We're thrilled to share a taste of what festivalgoers can expect from Cheltenham Jazz Festival 2025. The first release of tickets for our exciting 2024 programme offers a glimpse into the breadth and depth the what the festival aims for every year.
'Bringing together the finest contemporary jazz from across the globe, we celebrate every genre that pulses with jazz’s vibrant DNA. From symphonic ensembles and big bands to intimate club sessions and electrifying late-night jams, this year’s festival captures the full spectrum of jazz’s evolution.'
Cheltenham Jazz Festival takes place from Wednesday 30 April to Monday 5 May 2025 — and tickets for the first wave of acts go on general sale on Monday 25 November 2024.
