Cheltenham Jazz Festival comes to Dunkertons with five incredible live shows this spring
This spring, Dunkertons is proud to welcome a standout run of live performances as part of the 30th anniversary of Cheltenham Jazz Festival, one of the UK’s most loved and best-established jazz festivals. Each year, the festival brings an exceptional mix of internationally celebrated artists, emerging talent and genre-defying performers to Cheltenham, filling the town with world-class music and unmistakable festival energy.
As an official festival venue, Dunkertons will host five brilliant shows across an exciting long weekend of live music, bringing the spirit of Cheltenham Jazz Festival to the Tap Room. From swinging speakeasy sounds and virtuoso guitar performances to soulful Harlem blues and modern jazz-piano brilliance, this is a line-up packed with character, atmosphere and serious musical talent.
The series begins on Thursday 30 April at 8pm with The Easy Rollers, a dazzling seven-piece band known for their high-energy celebration of the Prohibition and Swing eras. Expect glamour, flair and a soundtrack full of 1920s Harlem sparkle, 1940s swing and irresistible vintage showmanship. It is the perfect opening note for a weekend of music at Dunkertons.
On Friday 1 May at 8pm, the spotlight turns to Taj Farrant, the young Australian guitarist who has already built a global reputation for his electrifying blues-rock sound. Still only 19, Taj brings remarkable musicianship, huge stage presence and the kind of guitar playing that turns a live set into a real event.
Then on Saturday 2 May at 8pm, Solomon Hicks arrives at Dunkertons. The Harlem-born guitarist, singer and multi-instrumentalist is known for blending blues and jazz with soul, gospel and funk, creating a sound that feels both deeply rooted and thrillingly alive. With his rich musical pedigree and magnetic live energy, this promises to be one of the weekend’s must-see performances.
On Sunday 3 May at 4pm, Giacomo Smith brings audiences into the world of New York in 1925, paying homage to a defining year in the city’s cultural and jazz history. Atmospheric, evocative and steeped in storytelling, this performance offers something truly special, transporting the crowd into the golden age of early jazz.
Closing the weekend on Sunday 3 May at 8pm is Elysia Biro, the Canadian singer, songwriter and virtuoso pianist whose sound fuses classical technique with a fresh, contemporary jazz-pop edge. With a growing international following and a style that feels both elegant and modern, Elysia provides a fittingly memorable finale to Dunkertons’ Cheltenham Jazz Festival programme.
With its relaxed atmosphere, distinctive setting and love of great live experiences, Dunkertons is the perfect place to enjoy Cheltenham Jazz Festival in a different way. Whether you are a devoted jazz fan or simply looking for an unforgettable night out, this is a chance to experience exceptional artists up close in one of the festival’s most unique venues.
Cheltenham Jazz Festival at Dunkertons
Thursday 30 April, 8pm – The Easy Rollers
Friday 1 May, 8pm – Taj Farrant
Saturday 2 May, 8pm – Solomon Hicks
Sunday 3 May, 4pm – Giacomo Smith
Sunday 3 May, 8pm – Elysia Biro
