Your ultimate guide to the Dundee Jazz Festival 2025
- Andrew Batchelor
- 13 hours ago
- 7 min read
The Dundee Jazz Festival returns to the city from 13-16 November 2025, bringing four days of world-class jazz across Dundee.
Tickets are now on sale, and the first batch of concerts has been announced featuring the Fergus McCreadie Trio, Rebecca Vasmant, Kimberley Tessa, the Nigel Price Trio with guest Lorne Lofsky, and kitti.
More announcements are expected soon, so jazz fans are encouraged to book early.
What events are happening?
The Rhythm Rascals Superband (pre-event)
Sat 08 Nov, 7.00pm, Discovery Point & RRS Discovery
The Rhythm Rascals Superband brings together a world-class lineup of international stars for a night celebrating the golden age of jazz, blues and ragtime.
Featuring multi-instrumentalist Andy Schumm, Chicago’s rising talent Natalie Scharf, Grammy-nominated bassist Jennifer Hodges, and Argentine duo Lucas Ferrari and Fernando Montardit, this exclusive performance unites some of the world’s finest early jazz interpreters for an unmissable evening of hot roots style and swinging rhythm.
Jonathan Scales Fourchestra
Thu 13 Nov, 7.30pm, Caird Hall
Get ready for an unforgettable night as the Jonathan Scales Fourchestra make their Dundee debut. This powerhouse American trio – featuring steel pan maestro Jonathan Scales, bassist E’Lon JD and drummer Maison Guidry – blend jazz, classical and progressive rock with bursts of Latin groove and funk flair.
Renowned for their electrifying live performances across the globe, from North America to Asia, the Fourchestra deliver a sound that’s as bold as it is beautiful, guaranteed to reignite your love for live music.
The Lowdown Jam Session
Thu 13 Nov, 9.30pm, Canvas
A cornerstone of Dundee’s jazz scene, The Lowdown Jazz Jam brings together musicians from across Scotland to perform alongside local Dundee talent. Hosted by double bassist Seth Bennett, the session celebrates creativity, collaboration and spontaneity in a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere. Kicking off the festival weekend at Canvas, it’s the perfect chance to experience the city’s thriving live jazz community in full swing.
Lorne Lofsky / Nigel Price Quartet
Fri 14 Nov, 7.30pm, Canvas
Two guitar greats unite as Lorne Lofsky and Nigel Price bring a powerhouse quartet to Dundee for an unforgettable Friday night. Lofsky, whose career has seen collaborations with legends like Oscar Peterson and Chet Baker, joins forces with Price, one of the UK’s top jazz guitarists and a former British Jazz Awards winner.
Together, they promise an evening of dazzling musicianship, swinging grooves and pure jazz mastery at Canvas – a true highlight of the festival.
Dundee University Big Band presents: Return of the Cooler (with Matt Carmichael)
Fri 14 Nov, 7.00pm, Bonar Hall
The Dundee University Big Band returns with Return of the Cooler, a spectacular showcase blending timeless big band classics with fresh modern flair. From swinging standards and smooth ballads to Bond themes, Disney tunes and disco beats, the performance promises something for everyone.
This year’s concert features special guest Matt Carmichael, one of Scotland’s most exciting young saxophonists, bringing his signature creativity and energy to the stage. So put on your finest attire, grab your dancing shoes and get ready to swing the night away at Bonar Hall.
Rebecca Vasmant (DJ Set)
Fri 14 Nov, 10.00pm, Canvas
Get ready for the ultimate Friday night as Rebecca Vasmant brings her signature energy to Canvas for a late-night DJ set that promises to keep the crowd moving.
Known for her deep musical knowledge and passion for uncovering hidden gems, the Glasgow-based artist has become one of the UK’s most exciting and versatile DJs.
From her beginnings promoting underground parties to residencies at the legendary Sub Club and regular BBC Radio Scotland slots, Rebecca’s sets are always unpredictable, soulful and full of groove – the perfect way to round off your Friday at the festival.
Music Moments at the V&A
Sat 15 Nov, 11.00am, V&A Dundee
The V&A Dundee will come alive with music on Saturday as the Dundee Jazz Festival teams up with the museum for a series of free Music Moments.
From 11am onwards, visitors can enjoy pop-up performances from a variety of talented artists and musicians, filling the iconic riverside venue with rhythm and energy.
It’s the perfect way to experience the festival in a relaxed, inspiring setting – and all completely free.
DJF * Scrapantics – Family Club Collaboration
Sat 15 Nov, 2.00pm, Scrapantics, Wellgate Centre
The Dundee Jazz Festival joins forces with ScrapAntics for a fun-filled Jazz for Kids afternoon at the Wellgate Centre.
Taking place at 2pm as part of ScrapAntics’ Family Club, the event will feature an interactive concert and a special collaboration between festival musician Seth Bennett and ScrapAntics’ own Monika.
Rooted in ScrapAntics’ values of community, creativity and sustainability, this free event promises an inspiring mix of music and imagination for families to enjoy together
Fergus McCreadie Trio
Sat 15 Nov, 3.00pm, Canvas
Blending the spirit of Scottish folk with the sophistication of jazz, Fergus McCreadie returns to Dundee with his acclaimed trio to perform music from his new album The Shieling.
Inspired by Scotland’s breathtaking landscapes, the record marks a fresh chapter in Fergus’s artistry, capturing a profound sense of space and stillness.
Recorded in a secluded North Uist cottage and produced by renowned musician Laura Jurd, this performance promises to be a spellbinding showcase of lyrical beauty and emotional depth.
Kimberley Tessa Quartet
Sat 15 Nov, 6.00pm, Canvas
One of Scotland’s most exciting new talents, Kimberley Tessa takes the stage at Canvas on Saturday evening, bringing her distinctive fusion of jazz and R&B.
Voted Rising Star at the 2023 Scottish Jazz Awards, the vocalist and saxophonist will perform a mix of original songs and timeless jazz standards inspired by icons like Ella Fitzgerald, Amy Winehouse and Erykah Badu.
With her dynamic band by her side, Kimberley promises a set full of passion, soul and raw emotion – a performance you won’t want to miss.
¡Salsa Y Son! with Conjunto Malecon
Sat 15 Nov, 9.00pm, Canvas
Experience the heat of Havana in Dundee for one night only with ¡Salsa Y Son! at Canvas. Featuring live music from Conjunto Malecon, a dynamic collective devoted to the rhythms of traditional Cuban music, the night promises irresistible melodies, rich harmonies and infectious energy.
With doors opening at 9pm, kick things off with a dance class led by Tania’V, followed by the band’s vibrant set until midnight and DJ Keef spinning Latin and Cuban tunes into the early hours.
Whether you’re a seasoned dancer or just love great music, this is the ultimate Saturday night out.
Jazz Workshop for Women & Minority Genders
Sun 16 Nov, 12.00pm, Bonar Hall
Acclaimed saxophonist Harben Kay hosts a welcoming and inspiring Jazz Workshop for Women and Minority Genders at Bonar Hall.
Open to all instrumentalists and singers regardless of experience, the session explores the language, traditions and inner workings of jazz in an inclusive and collaborative setting.
With an emphasis on creativity, equality and shared learning, participants will gain hands-on insight into this dynamic art form while connecting with others through music.
Canvas Sunday – Free Jazz All Day
Sun 16 Nov, from 3.00pm, Canvas
To mark the grand finale of the Dundee Jazz Festival 2025, Canvas will host a full day of free live music celebrating Scotland’s vibrant jazz scene.
Open to all, the event welcomes both fresh talent and seasoned performers, creating an atmosphere where everyone can enjoy the spirit of jazz.
The afternoon features Timmy Allan (guitar) and Norman Wilmore (saxophone) from 3–4pm, two award-winning young musicians performing together in Dundee for the first time, followed by the dynamic Eden Big Band from 5–6pm. A perfect, feel-good ending to the festival weekend.
Ben Shankland & Harben Kay
Sun 16 Nov, 4.00pm, Bonar Hall
Two of Scotland’s most exciting rising stars, Ben Shankland and Harben Kay, come together for a special Dundee Jazz Festival commission that promises intimacy, artistry and connection.
Performed in a unique setting with the audience gathered around an open grand piano, the duo will explore themes of Dundee, modern Scotland and the shared joy of live music.
Kay, hailed as one of the UK’s most creative and virtuosic jazz artists, joins Edinburgh-born pianist and composer Shankland, whose melodic sensitivity and rhythmic flair create a spellbinding partnership that celebrates the beauty of improvisation and human expression.
Stardust with Susan McCathie
Sun 16 Nov, 5.30pm, Bonar Hall
Beloved Dundee performer Susan McCathie (The Vintage Girls) returns to the Dundee Jazz Festival with Stardust – an enchanting new show where Broadway and film meet jazz.
Joined by pianist Richard Bailey, Susan will perform in the round, surrounded by the audience in an intimate setting around an open grand piano.
With her warm voice, timeless style and gift for storytelling, she’ll take listeners on a journey through the songs that defined stage and screen – a magical evening of melody, swing and nostalgia.
kitti and the Tayside Big Band
Sun 16 Nov, 7.30pm, Bonar Hall
Headlining this year’s festival, kitti takes to the Bonar Hall stage alongside local legends The Tayside Big Band for an unforgettable closing night spectacular.
To celebrate the nomination of her debut album Somethin’ In The Water for the 2025 Scottish Album of the Year Award, the show will feature newly commissioned big band arrangements of her songs, alongside jazz standards and show-stopping classics from the Great American Songbook.
With her soulful voice and the unmatched energy of a live big band, kitti’s performance will be a powerful and emotional finale to the festival.
The Sunnysiders Jam Session
Sun 16 Nov, 9.00pm, Canvas
To round off the weekend in true Dundee style, the Sunnysiders Jazz Band host the festival’s closing Jam Session at Canvas.
A cornerstone of the local jazz scene, they’ll bring musicians and audiences together for a relaxed, free-entry night of spontaneous performances and celebration.
Grab your instrument, join in, or simply enjoy the music as Dundee Jazz Festival 2025 ends on a high note.
This year marks a fresh chapter for the festival, with new venues, new energy and a commitment to both established artists and emerging talent.
If you’ve missed it in recent years, now’s your chance to join the return groove.
