Free Jazz at Fed Square

Presented by Melbourne International Jazz Festival

Starting the 2023 Festival with a bang, join us for a jam-packed line-up of international legends and local heroes over 2 days of free performances at Fed Square.

Friday night starts with a Smoking Ceremony to officially launch the 2023 Festival, followed by MIJF First Nations Resident Artist Bumpy performing her captivatingly soulful sounds, then local phenomenon JAZZPARTY close things out with their signature blend of New Orleans party with a punk attitude.

Saturday kicks off with the unmissable Second Line Parade, featuring the collective power of New Orleans’ own Hot 8 Brass Band and Melbourne favourites Horns of Leroy, storming the Fed Square stage with a 15-man strong brass band. Following this remarkable brass explosion, Zimbabwean-born first lady of soul and r&b, Thndo, will perform new material from her upcoming album Lessons in Love, backed by an epic 11-piece band. Closing out the main stage and showcasing material from her forthcoming debut album is Rita Satch, effortlessly intertwining a rich tapestry of soul, jazz, and RnB.

Finally, keep the free party going with intimate performances in beloved nearby venues.

Main Stage

Friday 20 Oct

5pm – Mz Rizk (DJ)
5.30pm – Smoking Ceremony
6pm – Bumpy
7.30pm – JAZZPARTY
8.30pm – Mz Rizk (DJ)

Saturday 21 Oct

1pm – Second Line Street Party *Starts at Southbank and finishes up at the Main Stage at Fed Square.
2pm – Hot 8 Brass Band & Horns of Leroy
3pm – Thndo
4.15pm – Rita Satch
5.15pm – Tom Showtime (DJ)

Local Venues

Saturday 21 Oct

Two For Tea: Benjamin Attiche & Oscar Neyland
6pm–8.30pm
Victoria by Farmer’s Daughters – Bookings available

Astral Flex
6pm–8pm
Beer Deluxe

For more information visit: https://www.melbournejazz.com/events/free-jazz-at-fed-square/