Since its inception in September 2005 and five hugely successful quarterly concerts, Jazz by Genre has redefined how jazz as a cultural experience is presented here in Toronto. Now, we are thrilled to announce Jazz by Genre Summerfest -- four days at The Docks featuring over 25 bands and DJs who present jazz through a staggeringly global array of genres and influences.

Jazz by Genre Summerfest's incomparably diverse lineup of local and international jazz artistry will feature: one of the true pioneering African jazzmen, the great pianist Randy Weston and his African Rhythms Trio; samba-jazz harmonica master Hendrik Meurkens & New York Samba Jazz Quartet, Canadian contemporary jazz innovators Four80East; M-1 of the incendiary hip hop group Dead Prez alongside an A-list of Toronto live hip hop jazzers; Canada's pre-eminent Cuban jazz musician - the virtuoso pianist Hilario Duran, Cuban jazz poetess sensation Telmary, the sublime South Asian-inspired sound of Tasa; Indo-jazz pioneer Sundar Viswanathan leading Avataar Collective, Amani and 'Em featuring multidisciplinary spoken-word visionary Anne-Marie Woods; and so much more.

"Jazz by Genre stemmed from a desire to create a truly accessible, representative and inclusive platform for the masses," explains Nu Jazz Society executive director and Jazz by Genre founder Graham Reid. "Now, we're taking it to another level with a lineup that we feel is much more reflective of the kind of festival Toronto's globally-conscious jazz fans want to see; one that will help bring new audiences, particularly younger generations, into the mix. It's the biggest manifestation yet of our mission to revitalize the art form, which now also includes links to tourism, cross-cultural organizations such as Caribana where you'll find our mas band in the parade with CaneFire & DJ Alvaro C., a huge cross-section of media, charitable initiatives and other community partners and sponsors. It's a range of alliances unique to Jazz by Genre on the festival landscape."