Blog

Posted 29/04/2021 by Ian Bowden

2021 Festival Announcement…Bringing the Best of British Soul, Funk, Gospel, Jazz and Contemporary Music to the Great British seaside!

Posted 29/04/2021 by Ian Bowden

Over the August Bank Holiday weekend we plan to bring music back to the streets of Rye.

Posted 27/08/2020 by Ian Bowden

For lovers of Soul and Funk music the festival is delighted to present an exceptional afternoon & evening ‘Soul On A Sunday’ with highly acclaimed, multi award–winning American singer, songwriter and actress Macy Gray at the De La Warr Pavilion, Bexhill on Friday 3rd June 2022.

Posted 27/08/2020 by Ian Bowden

In our ever changing world Covid-19 has impacted on all of our lives and none more so than on the arts and the live music industry. We all yearn for the day when we can enjoy and experience live music as we all remember and the joy, excitement and memories that music provides to us all.

Posted 26/05/2020 by Ian Bowden

It will come as no surprise and we deeply regret that it will not be possible to present what would have been the ninth Rye International Jazz and Blues Festival this August bank holiday weekend.

Posted 19/03/2020 by Ian Bowden

The health and wellbeing of our audiences, artists, professional suppliers, staff and volunteers are priority. We have made the hard but necessary decision to postpone our May concert presentations at the De La Warr Pavilion, Bexhill and St Mary's Church, Rye.

Posted 07/02/2020 by Ian Bowden

We are delighted that we will again be working with José Feliciano; presenting a unique concert with one of world’s greatest musicians, composers and recording artists at the iconic De La Warr Pavilion, Bexhill on Friday 8th May. José Feliciano is a true music legend, nine time GRAMMY award-winning artist including a lifetime achievement honours, plus multiple other nominations with over seventy millions record sales worldwide.

Posted 18/01/2020 by Ian Bowden

We are thrilled to announce that we are presenting the legendary music icon Booker T Jones in concert at the De La Warr Pavilion, Bexhill on Saturday 9th May 2020. This is a rare opportunity to experience and hear one of the most respected American musicians and producers of our generation and we encourage you to book early - demand for tickets will be very high.

Posted 21/12/2019 by Ian Bowden

In January the festival heads to a new venue, St Mary In The Castle, Hastings where we proudly present legendary American singer-songwriter Judy Collins on Thursday 23 January, followed by acid-jazz giants JTQ (James Taylor Quartet) on Saturday 25 January. We then return to Rye for the May bank holiday weekend when we present six exceptional concerts, here we announce four of the confirmed artists, with an additional two artists to be announced early 2020.

Posted 18/12/2019 by Ian Bowden

Delighted audiences enjoyed three incredibly special, festive concerts at St Mary’s church in Rye as our 2019 December Series rounded off an outstanding Rye Jazz year. We were thrilled to present American jazz singer and saxophonist Curtis Stigers on Thursday 12th December, The Kingdom Choir on Friday 13th and Barbara Dickson and Nick Holland on Saturday 14th December.

Posted 12/11/2019 by Ian Bowden

We are delighted to be producing the annual Fidelity International charity Christmas carol concert which takes place in the magnificent setting of Tonbridge School Chapel on Thursday 19th December. The highly acclaimed singer and actress Ruthie Henshall will be performing as special guest on the evening singing her own selection of songs. She will also be accompanying the Fidelity International choir. The event is supporting local charities Dandelion Time and Spadework.

Posted 12/11/2019 by Ian Bowden

Join us in Rye this December for three world-class concerts. Christmas is a magical time in Rye; stunning lights, fantastic shops, restaurants and bars for that festive tipple. Make a day of it and head to Rye for some seasonal shopping and finish the day with a spectacular concert at St Mary's Church. Our December series takes place from 12-14 December. We can't think of a better way to welcome in the festive season!

Posted 02/09/2019 by Ian Bowden

The 2019 festival was once again alive with top class live music and carnival fun over the festival weekend at the end of August. Exciting plans for the 2020 festival which will take place from 27th - 31st August next year are already underway so make sure that you put these dates in your diary! This year audiences were treated to the very best of Jazz, Blues, Swing, Funk, Folk and Latin music. There was a real party atmosphere as music lovers, families and friends enjoyed the free music programme and headline concerts.

Posted 04/07/2019 by Ian Bowden

The weather is warming up and so are our very exciting plans for this year’s eighth annual Rye international jazz and blues festival over the bank holiday weekend from Saturday 24th to Monday 26th August. Save the dates in your diary and be sure to head to the beautiful and historic town of Rye in East Sussex to soak up the electric atmosphere of this wonderful medieval town and experience the fun and excitement of one of the best boutique music festivals of its kind in the UK.

Posted 11/02/2019 by Ian Bowden

We are gearing up for the eighth annual Rye International jazz and blues festival taking place from Thursday 22nd - Monday 26th August encompassing the summer bank holiday weekend. This year’s programme includes intimate headline concerts and fantastic free music on the street, stages & fringe venues in Rye.

Posted 14/12/2018 by Ian Bowden

We are delighted to announce three of our confirmed spring concerts in early May as well as a handful of our August headline artists; all taking place in the stunning setting of St Mary’s Church, Rye. Early May bank holiday we present a series of eclectic concerts from Friday 3rd to Sunday 5th May. Opening the series is the ‘Godfather’ of bossa nova and Brazilian music the legendary Sergio Mendes. American jazz singer and instrumentalist Madeleine Peyroux has been confirmed for Saturday 4th May. Sunday 5th May we have 'An Audience with Jimmy Webb'. Looking ahead to the August festival we are delighted to announce the wonderful multi award - winning singer Rumer, Soul singer Beverley Knight, Jon Cleary from New Orleans, Bluesman Lucky Peterson, James Taylor Quartet aka JTQ and Folk Rock guitarist and songwriter Richard Thompson.

Posted 14/12/2018 by Ian Bowden

We proudly present a series of exceptional and intimate world class concerts set in the beautiful and historic location of Hever Castle, Kent. Dating back to the 13th century, Hever Castle was once the childhood home of Anne Boleyn, second wife of Henry VIII and Mother of Elizabeth I. These special performances take place at the open air theatre set in the gardens of Hever Castle; where you can enjoy the beautiful gardens by bringing a picnic, choosing to eat in the Guthrie Pavilion Restaurant or by simply wandering through the magnificent grounds.

Posted 30/10/2018 by Ian Bowden

On Saturday 27th October the Rye international jazz and blues festival proudly presented the wonderfully talented American jazz singer, songwriter and saxophonist Curtis Stigers at the atmospheric and intimate setting of Tonbridge School, Kent. This was the first performance of Curtis’ UK winter tour and a capacity audience were treated to two carefully crafted sets that included a stunning range of repertoire from Curtis' impressive back catalogue and jazz standards. Curtis was in fine voice showing off his impressive vocal range and was joined by his jazz quartet of exceptionally talented musicians.

Posted 16/10/2018 by Ian Bowden

As the Christmas season once again approaches, the Rye international jazz & blues festival is delighted to announce a very special series of stunning, intimate, world class concerts in the beautiful setting of St Mary’s Church in Rye on 14th to 16th of December. Spread the joy this season and treat yourself, your other half or get a group of friends together and enjoy an early Christmas treat!

Posted 20/09/2018 by Ian Bowden

For the first time in our seven years we extended the festival into September and moved location down the Sussex coastline to the iconic De La Warr Pavilion in Bex Hill-on-Sea. We were delighted to present two concert hall artists; Corinne Bailey Rae and Dionne Warwick.

Posted 17/09/2018 by Ian Bowden

The streets were alive with live music and carnival spirit in Rye over the festival weekend. Audiences were treated to the sounds of the best Jazz, Blues, Swing, Afro-beat, Funk, Folk and Latin music. There was a real party atmosphere as music lovers, families and friends experienced the free street music at the Kino Cinema outdoor performance stage, the Georgian Butter Market.

Posted 07/08/2018 by Ian Bowden

Tickets are selling fast for this incredibly special concert as Grammy Award-winning British songstress and guitarist Corinne Bailey Rae is set to delight the audience at the iconic De La Warr Pavilion in Bexhill-on-Sea on Friday 7th September. Don't miss this unique performance.

Posted 29/06/2018 by Ian Bowden

Fantastic free music takes place at our dedicated outdoor music stage kindly partnered and sponsored by Countryside Properties which is located at the Kino Cinema Terrace and at the Butter Market within the heart of Rye throughout the Bank holiday weekend. These events create a wonderful, vibrant and fun atmosphere complimenting the headline concerts at St Mary's Church perfectly.

Posted 11/05/2018 by Ian Bowden

2018 festival takes place from Friday 24th to Monday 27th August encompassing the August bank holiday weekend in the beautiful and historic town of Rye, East Sussex. This year we are extending our music programme into early September as we present two highly acclaimed concert-hall artists at the iconic De La Warr Pavilion in Bexhill-on-Sea on 7th & 8th September.

Posted 10/05/2018 by Ian Bowden

Our spring May concert series came to end on bank holiday Monday 7th May with the last of five unique and incredibly special live music presentations at St Mary’s church, Rye. The festival extends a special and warm thank you to all of the incredibly talented musicians and artists that performed as part of our eclectic and intimate concert series. Russell Watson, Danielle - Louise Thomas, The Fidelity International choir, Avery Sunshine, The Drawtones, Kyle Eastwood, The Christians, Milos Karadaglić and Ensemble7.

Posted 23/04/2018 by Ian Bowden

Rye international jazz & blues festival is reaching out for talented regional performers that would like the opportunity to perform at the 2018 summer festival. You will have the opportunity to open on the outdoor music stage over the August bank holiday weekend and to perform to a packed audience.

Posted 18/12/2017 by Ian Bowden

Spring will certainly be in the air come the early May Bank Holiday 2018, as we are thrilled to announce a number of exceptional headline concerts taking place at the stunning St Mary’s Church, Rye East Sussex. These special and eclectic concerts provide a unique live music experience with the opportunity to see world class quality artists in an ‘Up Close and Personal’ environment.

Posted 13/11/2017 by Ian Bowden

Rye is renowned for many events throughout the year and is a unique and very special town, steeped in history, character and charm. There are many wonderful festivals and events that take place in Rye each year which attract thousands of visitors from across UK, Europe and the World. Christmas is a very special time in Rye, and we are delighted to be presenting our live music concerts at St Mary’s Church this coming December.

Posted 10/11/2017 by Ian Bowden

The experienced and passionate team behind the Rye international jazz and blues festival are extremely proud to announce that we are in the process of planning two very high profile events to celebrate this hugely significant global event in East Sussex in April 2018. This exciting project will be a beacon for jazz not only for the South East but nationally in 2018 and will take place at the iconic De La Warr Pavilion in Bexhill on Saturday 28th April and at St Mary’s in the Castle, Hastings on International Jazz Day, Monday 30th April.

Posted 30/08/2017 by Ian Bowden

The streets were alive with live music and carnival spirit in Rye over the festival weekend. Audiences were treated to the sounds of the best Jazz, Blues, Swing, Funk and Latin music. There was a real party atmosphere as music lovers, families and friends experienced the free street music at the Kino Cinema outdoor performance stage and the Georgian Butter Market venue. Local suppliers cooled down the crowd and we hope you enjoyed the diabolically delectable Gin by Mayfield Sussex Hop Gin and the wonderful bar from Harvey's.

Posted 15/08/2017 by Ian Bowden

Tickets are selling fast for the sixth annual Rye International jazz and blues festival which is taking place from Thursday 24th - Monday 28th August and encompasses the Bank Holiday weekend. This year’s programme includes five superb intimate world class headline concerts which are staged in the stunning setting of St Mary’s Church, Rye. Headliners include Scottish brothers Pat and Gregory Kane, Hue & Cry, American Soul and Jazz singer Kandace Springs, acclaimed American Blues singer Eric Bibb and Folk singer and guitarist Seth Lakeman. We are excited to announce The Ronnie Scott’s All Stars perform Ronnie Scott's Songbook a show not to be missed for lovers of music - sneak a peek at the video below.

Posted 15/08/2017 by Ian Bowden

On Monday afternoon we proudly present a very unique and special concert ‘The Ronnie Scott’s All Stars’ and the ‘Ronnie Scott’s Songbook’ live at St Mary’s Church. This fantastic afternoon show will take you on a musical journey of amazing music, providing you with an insight into the heritage of the world’s most famous and iconic jazz clubs. Direct from London’s world-famous jazz club and combining world-class live jazz, narration and rare archive images, The Ronnie Scott’s All Stars take to the stage to celebrate ‘The Ronnie Scott’s Soho Songbook’.

Posted 14/07/2017 by Ian Bowden

On Sunday 9th July, the Rye International Jazz & blues proudly presented the People's Tenor Russell Watson at Tonbridge Castle. Concert attendees were treated to a fantastic afternoon of world class music and lots of sunshine!

Posted 14/07/2017 by Ian Bowden

Rye jazz & blues festival are proud to team up with Nyetimber to create the perfect summer terrace with English sparkling wine, food and world class live music. Stunning views, wonderful music, award winning wines and a selection of superb food platters, prepared by the Rye Lodge Hotel’s executive chef Attila Csicso, combine to create a relaxed and truly memorable experience.

Posted 05/06/2017 by Ian Bowden

Thank you to all those that attended our stunning Spring series of concerts at St Mary’s Church, Rye over the last May Bank Holiday weekend. We would like to extend our appreciation and gratitude to all of the superb artists that performed, Nigel Kennedy, Stacey Kent, Liane Carroll, Antonio Forcione, Sarah-Jane Morris, our sponsors, advertisers, media partners, the ever helpful and lovely team at St Mary’s Church and the festival personnel who worked so incredibly hard over the three days and nights.

Posted 09/05/2017 by Ian Bowden

Make a date in Rye for the end of August as we announce the first of our exciting festival headline concerts. We will be announcing additional artists in the near future, but to wet your appetites and so that many of you can plan ahead, we are delighted to confirm the following five headline concerts taking place over the August Bank holiday weekend in the beautiful setting of St Mary's Church in Rye.

Posted 09/04/2017 by Ian Bowden

Rye International Jazz & Blues Festival proudly present singing sensation Russell Watson at a special outdoor summer picnic concert in the stunning and historic setting of Tonbridge Castle, Kent on Sunday 9th July and we are delighted to announce that acclaimed Jazz singer Liane Carroll has been confirmed to perform in the supporting line up.

Posted 15/03/2017 by Ian Bowden

Spring is most certainly in the air, and at the end of May, so will be the sound of exceptional music in Rye. We haven’t been in hibernation, far from it, and we are delighted to announce a very special series of world class concerts for the spring May bank holiday. Make a date in your diary, and please join us for these three stunning, intimate and high quality concerts at the beautiful setting of St Mary’s Church, Rye East Sussex.

Posted 21/12/2016 by Ian Bowden

Thank you to all those that attended our stunning December series of concerts at St Mary’s Church, Rye which we hope got you all into the Christmas spirit. We also extend our appreciation and gratitude to all of the superb artists that performed, Rick Wakeman, the LCGC, Mica Paris, Ian Shaw & Claire Martin, Tom Chaplin, our sponsors, advertisers, media partners, the ever helpful and lovely team at St Mary’s Church and the festival personnel who worked so incredibly hard… you are all stars.

Posted 05/12/2016 by Ian Bowden

Nigel Kennedy returned to his Brighton birthplace last weekend and put on a show to remember. He wasn't in his usual Classical mode. Instead he was at The Dome to play the music of his idol, Jimi Hendrix. The virtuoso violinist bounded on stage, exchanged fist-pounds with his band and warmed the audience up with ‘Third Stone From The Sun’. The tone was set for a night without vocals and it was clear Kennedy was in a playful mood.

Posted 11/10/2016 by Ian Bowden

As the Christmas season once again approaches, the Rye International Jazz & Blues Festival are delighted to announce a very special series of stunning, high quality, world class concerts in the beautiful setting of St Mary’s Church in Rye. We are also providing VIP Premier Packages for these special events and pre-concert dining so why not take advantage of these superb opportunities, treat yourself, your better half or get a group of friends together and make a real night of it and enjoy an early Christmas treat….well it is December after all

Posted 29/06/2016 by Ian Bowden

Rye International Jazz & Blues Festival proudly presents Nigel Kennedy Plays Hendrix for a very special exclusive UK concert at the Brighton Dome Concert Hall this November. ​The world’s biggest selling classical Violinist of all time, maestro and maverick Nigel Kennedy performs the music of Jimi Hendrix for a very special exclusive UK concert at the Brighton Dome Concert Hall this November.

Posted 03/09/2015 by Ian Bowden

Thousands from across the South East and from as far as Birmingham descended upon the beautiful town of Rye over the bank holiday weekend to experience a stunning line-up of International Jazz & Blues talent at the 2015 Rye International Jazz & Blues Festival.

Posted 27/08/2015 by Ian Bowden

As the festival launches this evening at the Spectrum Jazz Lounge. We thought it's time to say good luck to our amazing festival team. There are still tickets available for this evenings performance with the Theo Jackson Quartet. Come along and join in the launch night fun!

Posted 26/08/2015 by Ian Bowden

​We are delighted to welcome Earl Okin to the Spectrum Jazz Lounge for what promises to be an outstanding afternoon cabaret performance with this musical genius! His one man show is one hot gig and it's sure to be a highlight of the Festival Programme.

Posted 24/07/2015 by Ian Bowden

The festival is thrilled to announce that James King and Miss Valentine will be supporting Clare Teal at the festival. James is making waves in the International music scene and has just been announced as the singer songwriter winner of Sundown Festival and will open the festival main stage on the Saturday. He's appearing with a special guest Miss Valentine and will definitely get the crowd warmed up for Clare. Clare Teal will be taking to the stage at 8pm in an exclusive, intimate picnic style performance in the stunning walled garden of Lamb House on Saturday 29 August. The doors will open at 6:30pm so there's plenty pf time for you to organise your rugs, chairs, picnics, Prosecco and take in the wonderful support we have lined up for you! In the event of bad weather, the concert will be moved indoors to the stunning St Mary's Church, just around the corner from Lamb House. Tickets are now on sale priced at £24 for adults, £10 under 16's and children under 5 free.

Posted 13/09/2020 by Ian Bowden

We are thrilled to be presenting two of the finest and highly acclaimed British jazz singers, songwriters and recording artists: Ian Shaw and Liane Carroll perform together on 'World International Jazz Day' 2021 at St Mary in the Castle, Hastings on Friday 30th April 2021 .... Friends reunited in a Covid-safe setting.

Posted 19/03/2020 by Ian Bowden

Despite the challenges we are all facing at the moment we have to remain positive and keep looking to the future; hoping that things improve for everyone for the summer. Planning continues for the 2020 Rye International Jazz and Blues festival, now in its ninth year, which takes place from 27-31 August.

Posted 27/01/2020 by Ian Bowden

It was a festival first as we kicked off 2020 presenting two exceptional concerts along the coast in Hastings. We were thrilled to have had the opportunity to present Judy Collins and the James Taylor Quartet in the stunning setting of St Mary in the Castle.

Posted 31/12/2019 by Ian Bowden

Exciting plans are already underway for the 2020 9th annual Rye International Jazz and Blues Festival which will take place from Thursday 27 August to the bank holiday Monday 31 August.

Posted 12/07/2019 by Ian Bowden

The Rye Jazz & Blues Festival are delighted to be working with The Devil in Rye to bring you two late night Jazz Sessions over the August Bank Holiday weekend. These events will have music with top artists, a fully licensed bar and snacks can be purchased on the night.

Posted 12/07/2019 by Ian Bowden

​The festival is delighted to present four Educational Workshops at the Rye Community Centre during the August Bank Holiday weekend.These workshops will be delivered by musicians and music therapists and will cover improvisation, jazz techniques and music for therapy amongst other topics.

Posted 12/07/2019 by Ian Bowden

After a successful launch in 2018 we are delighted to once again be working with our friends at The Gallivant in Camber to bring you two superb events - Jazz Brunch with legendary bassist Herbie Flowers and Planet Cuba with Son Yambu - on Bank Holiday Monday 26th August.

Posted 12/07/2019 by Ian Bowden

The Rye Jazz & Blues Festival are delighted to be working with The Devil in Rye to bring you two wonderful Jazz Supper events over the August Bank Holiday weekend. These events will have music with top artists, a fully licensed bar and award-winning cuisine. Book direct with the restaurant - details below.

Posted 10/07/2019 by Ian Bowden

Three days of free fantastic live music performances take within the heart of Rye from 12.00 Midday to 8pm on Saturday 24th to Monday 26th August, where you can expect to hear the very best in Jazz, Blues, Roots, Fusion, Soul, Funk, Rock Blues, Latin, Hip - Hop, Rap and New Orleans Jazz with an array of amazingly talented musicians from the South East and further a field. Drinks and food can be purchased at the outdoor stage and we close the roads to allow you, your friends and younger family members to wonder freely so you can enjoy the vibrant atmosphere safely. See the full free line up for Monday 26th August on the Kino Outdoor Stage and other fringe events.

Posted 10/07/2019 by Ian Bowden

Three days of free fantastic live music performances take within the heart of Rye from 12.00 Midday to 8pm on Saturday 24th to Monday 26th August, where you can expect to hear the very best in Jazz, Blues, Roots, Fusion, Soul, Funk, Rock Blues, Latin, Hip - Hop, Rap and New Orleans Jazz with an array of amazingly talented musicians from the South East and further a field. Drinks and food can be purchased at the outdoor stage and we close the roads to allow you, your friends and younger family members to wonder freely so you can enjoy the vibrant atmosphere safely. See the full free line up for Sunday 25th August on the Kino Outdoor Stage and other fringe events.

Posted 10/07/2019 by Ian Bowden

Three days of free fantastic live music performances take within the heart of Rye from 12.00 Midday to 8pm on Saturday 24th to Monday 26th August, where you can expect to hear the very best in Jazz, Blues, Roots, Fusion, Soul, Funk, Rock Blues, Latin, Hip - Hop, Rap and New Orleans Jazz with an array of amazingly talented musicians from the South East and further a field. Drinks and food can be purchased at the outdoor stage and we close the roads to allow you, your friends and younger family members to wonder freely so you can enjoy the vibrant atmosphere safely. See the full free line up for Saturday 24th August on the Kino Outdoor Stage and other fringe events.

Posted 14/06/2019 by Ian Bowden

What a wonderful May! Thank you to everyone who attended the concerts in May at our home in St Mary’s Church, Rye and further afield at the De La Warr Pavilion and the Hever Festival Theatre in the gardens of beautiful Hever Castle.

Posted 08/03/2019 by Ian Bowden

Rye Intl Jazz & Blues festival is delighted to be presenting Nigel Kennedy Plays Gershwin at the De La Warr Pavilion in Bex-Hill on Saturday 25th May. This show is Kennedy and his talented band reinterpreting the work of George Gershwin along with pieces by Johann Sebastian Bach, and his own compositions from his illustrious career that is unparalleled in modern British classical music.

Posted 11/02/2019 by Ian Bowden

Rye international jazz and blues festival announce three exceptional world class concerts taking place at the unique setting of St Mary’s church Rye this early May bank holiday.

Posted 24/09/2018 by Ian Bowden

Remember to hold the dates in your diary from Thursday 13th to Saturday 15th December this year as we are delighted to confirm that we will be presenting our December Christmas series comprising of three exceptional concerts at the stunning setting of St Mary’s church in Rye.

Posted 18/07/2018 by Ian Bowden

We're travelling on the festival soul train on Saturday 25th August with two world class British soul artists Tony Momrelle and Zara McFarlane headlining St Mary's Church. With a host of awards to their names and appearances on Later with Jools Holland these artists are the real deal and we're delighted to welcome them to the festival. Come down and let them take you to your soulful place! We are offering a ‘Soulful Saturday’ ticket which includes Unreserved Seated tickets for both soul headline concerts on Saturday 25th August; Tony Momrelle and Zara McFarlane.

Posted 11/07/2018 by Ian Bowden

Latin Vibe pop up with the Women's International Cigar Club on the terrace at the Rye Lodge Hotel. Sunday 26 August, 3.30pm Monday 27 August, 12.00pm Join WiCC founder Sarah Saunders on Sunday and Monday for an afternoon of Cuban and Latin music with world class musicians, cocktails, tutored cigar smoke, premium rum tastings, authentic food and space to meet old and new friends.

Posted 11/07/2018 by Ian Bowden

Jazznights proudly present a number of exceptional and intimate live music events at the Tudor Room at the world famous Mermaid Inn and the Rye Cricket Club as part of this year’s exciting 2018 festival programme. We strongly advise booking in advance at these cosy venues as the first 20 bookings will be allocated priority seating at tables close to the performers.

Posted 10/07/2018 by Ian Bowden

Jazznights proudly present a number of exceptional and intimate live music events in the Tudor Room at the world famous Mermaid Inn and the Rye Cricket Club Pavilion as part of this year’s exciting 2018 festival programme. There is a fully licensed bar at both venues. For those events at the Mermaid Inn a choice of bar snacks will be available throughout the day and a meal when booking an all-inclusive supper and ticket combination. We strongly advise booking in advance at these cosy venues as the first 20 bookings will be allocated priority seating at tables close to the performers. Tickets may also be purchased on the day subject to availability.

Posted 26/06/2018 by Ian Bowden

Rye international jazz & blues festival proudly present legendary vocalist Dionne Warwick at the iconic De La Warr Pavilion in Bexhill-on-Sea as part of our summer festival programme.

Posted 26/06/2018 by Ian Bowden

Rye international jazz & blues festival proudly presents Corinne Bailey Rae in concert as part of our summer festival programme at the iconic De La Warr Pavilion in Bexhill-on-Sea.

Posted 19/03/2018 by Ian Bowden

We've teamed up with our friends at Bramley & Teal Holiday Cottages for your chance to WIN a four night cottage stay in Rye and two premier tickets to all five of the Rye Jazz Spring Series concerts in 900 year old St Mary's Church in May.

Posted 20/12/2017 by Ian Bowden

Thank you to all those that attended our stunning December series of concerts at St Mary’s Church, Rye which we hope got you all into the Christmas spirit. We extend our appreciation and gratitude to all of the superb artists that performed, Mica Paris, Judi Jackson, Chris Difford, Glenn Tilbrook and Arcelia, our sponsors, the ever helpful team at St Mary’s Church, all of those that attended the concerts and our dedicated and passionate team of professionals and volunteers that make our events truly memorable.

Posted 19/12/2017 by Ian Bowden

We are delighted to offer an exclusive VIP Package for Russell Watson at St Mary's Church Rye this May. The VIP Package includes reserved VIP seating in St Mary's Church, a delicious Canapés and Bubbly reception at the historic, world famous The Mermaid in Rye and a signed CD. These tickets will be in demand so make sure you book early to avoid disappointment.

Posted 10/11/2017 by Ian Bowden

August 24th to 27th 2018 Save the dates and join us in Rye to celebrate our 7th annual festival in the beautiful and historic town of Rye, East Sussex. The festival is now firmly established over the August bank holiday weekend as one of the leading boutique music festivals in the UK, with an ever growing reputation for quality, diversity and audience engagement. Our festival programme grows year on year which attracts greater audiences from across the UK and the region to attend world class headline concerts with internationally acclaimed artists, many free music events and fringe activities at many venues across the town.

Posted 10/11/2017 by Ian Bowden

Rye international jazz and blues festival is firmly established over the August Bank Holiday weekend as one of the leading boutique music festivals in the UK. With an ever growing reputation for quality, diversity and audience engagement, the festival provides the perfect platform for brands and businesses to associate themselves with success providing regional brand and marketing exposure to a captive audience and demographic. A festival that takes place at key locations within the heart of the beautiful and historic town of Rye. In addition to the main August festival, we also present additional special projects at key locations at carefully selected venues across the South East, and we would be very pleased to also discuss these projects and partnership opportunities with you.

Posted 17/07/2017 by Ian Bowden

Nyetimber Terrace at the Rye Lodge Hotel - Wine Tasting Evenings. There will be two wine tasting events taking place on the terrace from 6pm - 7pm on Saturday 26th and Sunday 27th August. Each evening there will be an exclusive tasting of Nyetimber’s award-winning sparkling wines.

Posted 06/06/2017 by Ian Bowden

Fantastic free music takes place at the dedicated outdoor music stage which is located at the Kino Cinema Terrace and the Butter Market within the heart of Rye in Lion Street. These events create a wonderful vibrant fun atmosphere and there will also be refreshments, food and bars serving your favourite drinks throughout each day. Expect the very best in jazz, blues, RnB, Soul, Folk, Roots, Latin, Cuban and contemporary music performances on the outdoor stage with performances taking place from 1.00pm – 7.00pm on Saturday 26th, Sunday 27th and Monday 28th August.

Posted 17/03/2017 by Ian Bowden

The Rye jazz & blues festival is at the heart of all of our exciting future plans, and will take place over the August bank holiday weekend in 2019. Our clear aim and vision, is to continue to build the festival, attracting world class artists to perform in Rye, whilst at the same time attracting new audiences to visit the festival and the town.

Posted 17/03/2017 by Ian Bowden

We have certainly not been in hibernation over the recent winter months in fact, we have been working on a whole range of very exciting plans for this year’s summer festival. Already established as one of the leading music festivals in the UK, our 2017 programme will be exciting and dynamic as always, with a carefully selected number of world class concerts, presented to the highest quality at intimate venues. We welcome families and music aficionados to attend our fun and vibrant event, with many thousands expected to attend the beautiful town of Rye at the end of August.

Posted 14/11/2016 by Ian Bowden

We are delighted to offer an exclusive VIP Package for Nigel Kennedy - Bach meets My World at St Mary's Church Rye this May. The VIP Package includes reserved VIP seating in St Mary's Church, a delicious and substantial Canapés and Bubbly reception at The George in Rye and a signed CD. These tickets will be in demand so make sure you book early to avoid disappointment.

Posted 14/09/2016 by Ian Bowden

The street vibe of New Orleans came to Rye over the festival weekend where audiences were treated to the sounds of the best Jazz, Blues, Swing, Funk and Latin music. There was a real party atmosphere as music lovers, families and friends moved freely from one venue to another experiencing the free street music at the Kino Cinema outdoor performance stage and the Georgian Butter Market venue. We hope that you also managed to sample the delicious Cajun food on offer and enjoy the festival jazz ale – Jazz Top made by our friends at the Old Dairy Brewery.

Posted 17/08/2016 by Ian Bowden

A weekend of top quality free live music awaits you at the Butter Market and the Kino Cinema Terrace from Friday 26th – Monday 29th August. We proudly announce the inclusion of two more outstanding bands, set to perform on the Kino Cinema outdoor stage, kindly supported and arranged by Kino Digital.

Posted 17/08/2016 by Ian Bowden

A veritable guitar feast of free music takes place at the Kino Cinema outdoor stage on Friday 26th August from 7.00pm with Sky Arts Guitar Stars. We are delighted to welcome Blues guitarist and finalist Steve Morrison and Jazz Fusion guitarist and winner of the 2016 Guitar Star Zayn Mohammed who also performed at Latitude Festival earlier this year.

Posted 07/08/2016 by Ian Bowden

Our friends and official brewery partners The Old Dairy Brewery have masterfully crafted a must try special festival beer called the ‘Jazz Top’ 4.6% Pale Ale. Be sure to ask for a pint or bottle of this fabulous festival beer and enter into the spirit of the jazz festival! You will be able to find ‘Jazz Top’ and other wonderful Old Dairy beers at many venues within Rye. The ‘Jazz Top’ and another brewery favourite ‘Gold Top’ will be served at a dedicated outdoor bar at Kino Cinema Terrace where fabulous free live music is taking place from lunchtime onwards on Saturday 27th, Sunday 28th and Monday 29th August.

Posted 28/06/2016 by Ian Bowden

Welcome to Rye International Jazz & Blues Festival 2016 taking place from 25th to 29th August in beautiful Rye. This year the number of events are more compact and include a bijou and intimate series of free and ticketed presentations that will provide wonderful variety. Headline artists include the UK's very own Queen of Soul Mica Paris and Jazz singers Liane Carroll and Joe Stilgoe. Tickets for these headline events are now on sale. More acts and our fringe programme will be announced over the coming days.

Posted 22/06/2016 by Ian Bowden

Hot on the heels of his sell out shows at Ronnie Scott's Jazz Club in London and much anticipated performance at the Edinburgh Jazz Festival, Rye International Jazz & Blues Festival in association with the Assembly Hall Theatre proudly present an outstanding live concert with Curtis Stigers one of the most respected and acclaimed jazz singers of his generation. Don’t miss this special opportunity to experience an evening of exceptional jazz talent.

Posted 10/04/2016 by Ian Bowden

We are hoping the bring the Brand New Heavies to the Assembly Hall Theatre, Tunbridge Wells in October. Dates and full details to be announced soon.

Posted 10/04/2016 by Ian Bowden

A date for your diary is Saturday 30th April 2016 which has been designated as International Jazz Day by the United Nations Education, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO).

Posted 04/04/2016 by Ian Bowden

After a sell-out performance at the Rye International Jazz Festival in 2015. We are delighted to be bringing one of the most respected and talented jazz singers of this generation to the Assembly Hall Theatre, Tunbridge Wells. We proudly present Clare Teal & Her Mini Big Band on Saturday 28th May 2016. This performance is Kindly sponsored by Berkeley Group, Royal Wells Park.

Posted 04/04/2016 by Ian Bowden

As spring makes a welcome return it is at this time we announce a number of updates for our future plans . We have certainly not been in hibernation over the winter months; in fact, we have been busy exploring and planning a series of outstanding live performance plans which will take place at carefully selected locations and venues throughout 2016 and into 2017.

Posted 24/08/2015 by Ian Bowden

After the jazz funk outfit Hardines have taken you to your funky place, we change the music mood at the Spectrum Jazz Lounge to a more relaxed and chilled out feel with Gwyneth Herbert and Ned Cartwright. This will be a delightfully intimate performance from the award-winning composer and lyricist and versatile musical adventurer who continues to redefine and challenge expectations. Appearing on home turf, Gwyn appears tonight on vocals, ukulele, French horn, melodica and cheese-grater alongside boy-wunderkind pianist Ned Cartwright. Expect tales of jaded seaside hotels, East End vagrants, loves and losses and drips and drops and the occasional Swahili singalong!

Posted 24/08/2015 by Ian Bowden

Don't miss out on one of these three fantastic afternoon performances. Thank you for your interest in the Rye International Jazz & Blues Festival we are looking forward to it all kicking off on Thursday. Have you booked for one of our fantastic afternoon performances? If not, in the final run up to the festival we would be delighted to offer you a 15% discount for these superb shows.

Posted 19/08/2015 by Ian Bowden

Our friends at the Old Dairy Brewery have been working hard on the Rye Jazz & Blues Festival BeeBop Top. We want to give you a peek at the beer and the brewery from your armchair before you come on down to the festival to enjoy a Pint in the pubs, bars and our own Spectrum Jazz Lounge around Rye! BeeBop Top ‘…satchmoo approved!’

Posted 14/08/2015 by Ian Bowden

Wednesday night saw young and emerging artists gather at Grosvenor Casino in Piccadilly London where the final auditions for the Chapter & Lyric stage at the Festival were taking place.

Posted 14/08/2015 by Ian Bowden

The Festival is proud to announce Joe Corbin will be supporting Wilko Johnson on Sunday 30th at Milligan Theatre. Joe came to the festival's eye through our Chapter & Lyric events and we are delighted to offer him the chance to support Wilko. Joe and his guitar will take to the stage at 7pm.

Posted 03/08/2015 by Ian Bowden

Having trouble finding somewhere to stay during the festival? We want to make your festival experience as trouble free as possible.

Posted 25/06/2015 by Ian Bowden

Since the inception of the Rye International Jazz and Blues Festival 4 years ago, festival director Ian Bowden had his sights on securing the voice of jazz Mr Gregory Porter and last night the vision became reality as we presented an exclusive pre-2015 festival performance at the De La Warr Pavilion in Bexhill. Read our review here...

Posted 25/06/2015 by Ian Bowden

Dom Pipkin is one of the leading exponents of New Orleans RnB and blues in the UK and he will be talking about his first hand experiences of visiting New Orleans after Katrina, the people and characters that he met and how the music of this fascinating city, famous the world over for its music got itself back on it's feet. The mood will be high and in full swing when he's joined on stage by his band The Ikos to get us all up partying - New Orleans style!

Posted 03/06/2015 by Ian Bowden

James Tormé - Celebrates the Greats - live at St Marys is sure to be a Festival highlight. Tickets are selling fast - Book today! The Rye International Jazz & Blues Festival is proud to welcome award-winning jazz singer James Tormé, for a celebration of music’s greatest legends, from Ella Fitzgerald, Ray Charles, Peggy Lee and Nat “King” Cole, to Miles Davis, Frank Sinatra, and of course, his own father, 3-time Grammy Award winner Mel Tormé.

Posted 23/05/2015 by Ian Bowden

Welcome to our new website and welcome to Rye International Jazz & Blues Festival 2015 taking place from 27th to 31st August. Take your time to have a look through some of this year's fantastic line-up including GoGo Penguin, Wilko Johnson and Avery Sunshine. Tickets for these headline events are now on sale. More headline acts and our fringe and street programme will be announced over the coming days.

Posted 23/05/2015 by Ian Bowden

We are super excited and gearing up for tonight's Gregory Porter concert at the De La Warr Pavilion. This event is now sold out. Special thanks to sponsors Future Climate Info and the Old Borough Arms, Rye. Gregory will be speaking in an live interview with BBC South East News this evening! Make sure you are watching...

Posted 01/05/2015 by Ian Bowden

Following our festival preview which took place last night we are delighted to announce that tickets for the 2015 festival will go on sale on Saturday 23rd May to coincide with the launch of our very gorgeous new website!

Posted 30/04/2015 by Ian Bowden

On International Jazz Day we are delighted to be launching our festival Friends & Patrons membership. The scheme will be officially launched at a reception this evening at The Rye Retreat. For details about the exclusive benefits you can receive read on...

Posted 18/04/2015 by Ian Bowden

Premium Tickets for Gregory Porter's one-off performance at the De La Warr Pavilion on Wednesday 24th June are now available online by booking via ryejazz.com priced at £44.

Posted 10/04/2015 by Ian Bowden

The Rye International Jazz and Blues Festival proudly presents a special pre-festival concert with the amazing, internationally acclaimed voice of Jazz, Gregory Porter on Wednesday 24th June. Tickets go on sale with the De La Warr Pavillion today and a further allocation of tickets will be available from Rye International Jazz Festival week commencing Monday 13th April.

Posted 04/04/2015 by Ian Bowden

With Easter upon us and Spring now in the air we have some exciting new announcements for you in the coming days. Check back in with us next week when we will be annoucing an exclusive 'for one night only' concert with one of the most talked about artists in the industry at this time; 'the new voice of jazz' comes to the De La Warr Pavillion, Bexhill on Wednesday 24th June.. we are super excited and are bursting to tell you!

Posted 27/12/2014 by Ian Bowden

As 2014 draws to a close, we take a look back on another fantastic year for the Rye International Jazz & Blues Festival.

Posted 02/09/2014 by Ian Bowden

Alchemy Charitable Trust, a charity established to helping those in exceptional need across Sussex and West Kent proudly presents an intimate, fun and outstanding Jazz concert with acclaimed multi award-winning Jazz singers Ian Shaw and Liane Carroll on Saturday 25th October at The Salomons Estate, Tunbridge Wells, Kent.

Posted 22/08/2014 by Ian Bowden

With tickets selling fast for festival events don't miss out on remaining tickets for Ola Onabule, he is set to raise the roof of St Mary's Church on Sunday 24 August with his outstanding 5-piece band.

Posted 20/08/2014 by Ian Bowden

Delighted to announce that the festival was featured on BBC South East News tonight at 6.30pm. Interviews with Jason Rebello, Ola Onabule and Herbie Flowers. You can watch again if you missed it here The festival already has several sold-out events

Posted 23/12/2013 by Ian Bowden

Picture Highlights from the 2012 and 2013 Rye International Jazz Festival.

Posted 01/06/2012 by Ian Bowden

We hope you enjoyed the unique atmosphere of Rye and experienced an unforgettable five days of the very best in live music entertainment. Our programme for 2013 was all about having fun, relaxing and soaking up the wonderful atmosphere of Rye and the sun (with the exception of Saturday), whilst experiencing and listening to a diverse mix of great jazz influenced musical styles. Even on the Saturday like true Brits we got out there and enjoyed!! Here's some some photos to remind of you the great time we all had....