World class jazz artists will converge on Margate this weekend for a festival which has grown from its humble beginnings.

Originally conceived by David Mossman, it started out as the Big Sky Jazz Festival in 2005, and attracted world class artists and the area’s finest local jazz talent.

It took a break last year but it is back this weekend as the Margate Jazz Weekend, and a new partnership with Olby’s Soul Cafe and Margate Jazz Festival.

Kicking off the weekend will be Bansangu Orchestra, a contemporary 18-piece big band led by Ramsgate-based saxophonist Paul Booth. Their self-penned compositions and original arrangements showcase rich and diverse musical influences and the event is also the official launch of their self-titled debut album. Headlining on the Saturday night will be Courtney Pine with his award-winning House of Legends project.

Deeply steeped in the traditions of the Caribbean, it promises to be a mix of merengue, ska, mento and calypso as played through the saxophone of a UK born artist with strong, proud Afro-Caribbean roots. Ending the weekend will be celebrated Cuban violinist Omar Puente, leading his sextet with music from his latest album, Best Foot Forward. Omar’s sound draws together elements of jazz, classical and Cuban music.

There will also be supporting events throughout the weekend, with the headliners all performing at Olby’s Soul Cafe & Music Rooms.

DETAILS

Margate Jazz Weekend is from Friday, September 21 to Sunday, September 23. Tickets for all three days cost £37.50 and are available from olbyssoulcafe.co.uk.