LEGENDARY DONEGAL jazz trumpeter John Merrick is due to be honoured at this year’s Galway Jazz Festival, which promises a “big party of swinging good tunes” when it opens on Thursday.
Luxembourg vibraphonist Pascal Shumacher, Danish group Ibrahim Electric and Ireland’s answer to Billie Holiday, singer Mary Coughlan, will also perform at the four-day event, which will close with former Steely Dan musician Chris Potter and his New York group Underground.
Merrick, who plays regular Sunday afternoon sessions at the age of 78, came to Galway more than 40 years ago, and has influenced many musicians.
Irish and international artists will participate in a free jazz trail in a number of venues, including Busker Browne’s, Tigh Neachtains, Café 8, House Hotel, Artisan and Morgan’s Bar.
The free festival club will be based in the Hotel Meyrick on Eyre Square.
Full programme details are on www.galwayjazzfestival.com
The city’s visual arts festival, Tulca, also continues this week. Further details are on the www.tulca.ie website.