Jazz Festival hits all the right notes

Saturday’s downpour failed to dampen the Festival spirit and atmosphere and the colourful street parade and live music all took place as scheduled.

The sun shone for the rest of the weekend and audiences were entertained by a variety of street performances at many local venues and locations throughout Rye.

Crowds gathered to watch and listen to inspired music performances at the Butter Market and the George in Rye. The Ypres Castle Inn played host to the festival’s outdoor stage, which drew large crowds.

Festival director Ian Bowden said: “I am incredibly proud of what we achieved and I am delighted that so many people came to Rye to attend our exciting and vibrant new festival.

“It is so fulfilling to see our vision grow each year into what I know is well on its way to becoming an internationally recognised and respected music festival. The festival team have been so dedicated and passionate and I cannot thank them enough.

“I would particularly like to thank all of our festival sponsors who have supported the festival this year, Clive Emson our title partners, Wilmoths Citroen our Automotive Partners, Gusbourne Estate, MC Glass, Green Insurance Group and The Old Borough Arms amongst many. The real heroes of the festival are our dedicated and passionate team and I cannot thank them enough.

“A massive thank you to our media partners Red Carrot web design and Importantly, the people of Rye, the Town Council and the local police and authorities for their fantastic support. I would also like to extend my gratitude to all of the local pubs, restaurants, hotels and venues that presented performances throughout the festival.

“We have already been in discussion with various world class artists for the festival in 2014 and we can guarantee that there will be a number of top drawer names appearing at the festival next year.”