Despite the initial, justifiable concerns about lack of funding last year, thanks to the overwhelming support from you festival-goers, we not only survived but somehow delivered a 2025 Birmingham Jazz & Blues Festival that, over 10 music-packed days, presented 179 performances, 166 of them free admission in 101 venues attracting a total audience of 64,498 festival-goers.

With Birmingham City Council unable, again, to offer any support whatsoever, Westside pulling out of their promised support, we were left with just £20,750 – that’s £10k from the ever-loyal Sandwell MBC, £9750 from WMCA and £800 from the Musician’s Union – and then you guys, you festivalgoers, stepped in with very nearly £9k – which was pivotal to enabling the festival to deliver such a splendid, almost free edition for our 41st year.

And then, you supported us further by turning up in your droves to enjoy some memorable music from musicians from throughout the UK and from France, Italy, USA, Sweden and New Zealand.

Ok, we have to admit that things are, on paper, not looking too good on the funding front for this year’s festival, set for July 24th to August 2nd – a little later than usual in order to avoid clashing with the World Cup football. Sandwell MBC gave us early confirmation, we’re hopeful that the MU will support us again, as they have done for more than 20 years – but at the moment all we have confirmed is £11,000.

So once again we have to turn to you guys for support and we firmly believe you won’t let us down, just as we are determined to not let you down – so come hell or highwater – The 42nd Birmingham Jazz & Blues Festival will be waving the flag for Jazz, Blues and associated music!

We would like to extend our thanks to all those who were generous enough to donate in 2024 and 2025 – it is through your support that we are able to continue delivering this iconic event. Please do your best to contribute again this year, and if you are unable to contribute financially, then please share with friends, family and anyone who may be able help.

You can also donate through easyfundraising.co.uk, a platform which allows shops and businesses to donate a small amount to the festival whenever you make online purchases, at no cost to you (email admin@bigbearmusic.com for more info).

Your support, no matter how big or small, makes a massive impact.

Here’s to another entertaining, groovy and FREE Birmingham Jazz & Blues Festival – let’s make it BETTER than ever!

GIVE A LITTLE – GROOVE A LOT

It  is possible to donate by phone (0121 454 7020) or by cheque (payable to Birmingham Jazz Festival LTD, PO Box 944, Birmingham, B16 8UT), that would be brilliant.

Yours sincerely,

Jim Simpson

Festival Director