Carndonagh Jazz Festival this weekend

We first had the idea to do the festival about 2 months ago!

Myself,and my two sisters Maureen (other event organiser & co-owner of C@fe Donagh) & Anita (other owner of the cafe) just came up with idea whilst sitting on the sofas in Cafe Donagh drinking our after-work tea,listening to jazz!!

I've been into jazz for a long time and know a lot of jazz musicians so they reckoned I'd be a good candidate to organise a festival,and so me and mo decided to just go for it,and 2 months later it is happening.

2. This is Donegal's first ever jazz festival. Is there a following for jazz in Donegal?

I'm not too sure...I know a lot of people who love jazz and who also love to go to concerts and do something different so yeah, I would say there is.

The cafe culture is really taking off and lots of venues are getting in jazz acts on Sunday afternoons or evenings.

3. Is jazz big in Carndonagh?

....yes...

Actually there are quite a few people who play and sing jazz here.

There are two completely local acts performing-the Queen of Quiet in the Arch Inn on Friday at 10pm and Spirit of Jazz who will be performing at 4pm on Saturday in Cafe Donagh.

And on Sunday in Cafe Donagh there will be a number of local singers who will be joining in the session at 4pm.

4. Who are the big names at the festival?

The biggest names would have to be David Lyttle,drummer from Co.Armagh and Gay McIntyre - legendary saxophonist from Derry.

David will be joined by two big names from the Irish Jazz scene, Justin Carroll & Paul Williamson.

The Love Pumpers and Montana Floss are also making a name for themselves - they will playing in Tul Na Ri on Friday night...doors opening at 11:30pm.

5. If people want to come to the jazz festival is there anywhere they can look for accommodation?

Some guests will be staying at Culdonagh Manor in Drumaville (00353)749373279 but more information is available at www.InishowenOnline.com

6. I understand Benny Doherty of Moville band Stratospheric is playing. When is he on?

Benny will be joining in the festivities on Sunday at Cafe Donagh,where he will be getting up to sing a few songs.

7. How has it been for you organising the festival?

It's been stressful at points but very very enjoyable on the whole.

Have really loved it and hope to do it again!

8. Will there be many people coming?

Hopefully!

Lots of people have said they will come from Derry and Buncrana and everybody is talking about it around home.

9. What's the weather forecast?

Generally dry,light or moderate southerly winds!

10. Is there a website to find further information?

www.myspace.com/jazzylittlechristmas