‘Prairie Loud’: TD Saskatchewan Jazz Festival strikes a chord with free riverbank performances

(Carla Shynkaruk / CTV News)

The sound of live music can be heard across Saskatoon’s riverbank as the TD Saskatchewan Jazz Festival brings free performances and festival energy to Victoria Park and various other locations around the city this week.

Crowds of all ages gathered Wednesday afternoon at K.W. Nasser Plaza, where festivalgoers soaked up the sunshine while enjoying live music along the South Saskatchewan River.

Festival organizers say the free concerts are about more than creating a fun summer atmosphere, they’re also about making music accessible and celebrating the genres that laid the foundation for today’s music.

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“Jazz and the blues are the foundational genres of all contemporary music,” executive director Shannon Josdal, told CTV News.

That message is reflected in the festival’s new slogan: “Prairie Loud. No Wrong Notes.”

“It’s really speaking to what jazz is. Jazz is an experimental genre. It’s about rebellion. It was punk rock before there was punk rock,” she said.

The festival’s mix of free programming and ticketed headline acts is attracting both locals and visitors, with many taking the opportunity to experience live music in a welcoming outdoor setting.

“I think it’s a good festival for free music, too for people as well, in general, to get to know culture and different styles of music,” festivalgoer Liliana Dominguez said.

For Andy Simons, the festival was the perfect backdrop for a family outing downtown.

“We’re having our family get together, and the jazz festival’s on, so we’re here downtown to enjoy it,” he said.

The festival is also seeing record-breaking attendance.

Tuesday night’s performance by indie rock band Modest Mouse drew the largest-attended festival show in the event’s history.

“It’s the highest attendance of a festival show in the history of the festival. We had close to 4,500 people in the park,” Josdal said.

Organizers hope festivalgoers leave not only entertained, but with a greater appreciation for jazz and blues, the musical roots that continue to influence artists across every genre.

“We do like music,” said young festivalgoer Grace Simons with a smile.

Bruce Cockburn is the final paid performance of The TD Saskatchewan Jazz Festival on Friday. The festival continues through Saturday, culminating with a lineup of local talent.