The Inaugural Toronto Jazz Fest Gala Fundraiser was an extraordinary evening with Toronto’s finest musicians, dancers and a 1920s-inspired fashion show.

On June 20, the 37th annual TD Toronto Jazz Fest kicked off at the Windsor Arms Hotel! As VIP guests and media eagerly strolled into the swanky entrance, they were greeted with smiles, roaring jazz notes and electrifying swing dancing that captured their hearts and souls.

The evening festivities called for a formal 1920s-inspired attire, and attendees did not disappoint. From bold pearl jewelry and hairstyles to pinstripe suits and fedoras, the entire gathering looked like a scene from The Great Gatsby. Everyone danced the night away with no regrets.

The gala was truly a night to remember! The electrifying entertainment included a 16-piece big band honouring 1920s jazz with local artists singing some of the great jazz standards from that era; a swing dance demonstration; tap dancers; DJs and a 1920s-inspired fashion show featuring Canadian designers.

Guests were treated to steady drinks and custom cocktails, courtesy of the open bar, and delectable bites.

More importantly, the impact of the TD Toronto Jazz Fest extends beyond the culture of music and dance. Now, in its 37th year, it has generated more than $15 million in economic contribution yearly, financially supported more than 750 musicians across 125+ performances annually, represents 750+ artists each year, 90 per cent+ Canadians in 2024, and, finally, locally sourced 100% Canadian employment in house positions.

“Since its inception, TD Toronto Jazz Fest has been on a mission to foster and celebrate our local and emerging Canadian artists — this is even more critical post-pandemic as our local musicians still struggle to find work,” says Howard Kerbel, CEO of TD Toronto Jazz Fest. “With artists having fewer opportunities to showcase their talent, our goal is to provide them with a stage to cultivate an audience and receive fair pay, which is essential to nurturing the next generation of great Canadian talent.”

Whether you are looking for your next date idea, a night out with friends, family or colleagues, look no further. The TD Toronto Jazz Festival runs this summer from June 21 to June 30, 2024. From concert halls and countless FREE acts performing throughout Bloor-Yorkville, and, in some of the most prestigious halls in the city, the festival offers 10 days of a wide range of music with Toronto as its backdrop. Music fans alike can enjoy a variety of genres, including Funk, Swing, Hip-Hop, Big Band, Brazilian, Klezmer, R&B and more.

New this year and until June 30th, the TD Toronto Jazz Fest will host its first online auction and 50/50 raffle, with 100 per cent of the net proceeds going toward supporting local and Canadian artists. Bids can be placed from anywhere globally.

Included in the items up for grabs:

The Jazz Fest Gala would not have even been possible without the dedicated hearts and minds of Jessica Panetta (gala event producer + PR), John Caliendo (Toronto Jazz Fest board chair), Howard Kerbel (Toronto Jazz Fest CEO) and Josh Grossman (Toronto Jazz Fest artistic director).

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