What is it about jazz music that inspires its audience to become afficionados?
In the interplay of brass, drums, bass, and vocals, people go from listener to lifelong fan, eager to debate their favourite band members and performances.
Israel Asper (1932 - 2003) was a passionate jazz afficionado. He had a vision of creating a jazz series in Winnipeg modeled after the one at the New York’s famous 92nd Street Y. In 1999, he approached the Rady JCC with the idea of partnering to bring jazz greats to Winnipeg to perform.
And from there, the Izzy Asper Jazz Performances was born.
Today, over 25 years later, and the Izzy Asper Jazz Performances have now showcased over 400 internationally renowned jazz greats entertaining over 80,000 people right here in Winnipeg.
2025/2026 Season: A Beautiful Showcase of World-Class Jazz Performances
The wait is over, cool cats.
The 2025/2026 Izzy Asper Jazz Performances has dropped. And trust us, you’ll want to be in the room for these performances.
Take a look below at what’s still coming up and secure your individual seats before it’s too late.
When the African Rhythm Alumni Ensemble hits the stage, you’re not just getting jazz. You’re getting an entire diasporic sound journey that spans continents, cultures, and decades.
Together, these musicians deliver what jazz journalist Eugene Holley Jr. once called “an infectious mix of blues, jazz, West Indian and Latin rhythms, and Gnawa music from Morocco, all folded together as one nation of groove.”
This is not background music. This is movement music. Music with roots.
You’ve got two chances to catch them live. Make one of them count.
CLICK HERE to grab your tickets before they’re history!
Cyrille Aimée doesn’t just perform. She radiates.
With a voice that shimmers across languages and a stage presence that pulls you in like gravity, she’s become one of the most captivating vocalists in jazz today.
Born in France, raised on Dominican beats, and powered by a globe-spanning musical spirit, Cyrille weaves together swing, soul, and stories with effortless charm. Think Billie Holiday meets a barefoot dancer under Caribbean skies.
She’s won all the awards. She’s sung all over the world. But this show is here, and it’s for you.
Get your seat. Bring a friend. Let the music move you.
CLICK HERE to experience Cyrille live. You won’t forget it.
Subscribe for a Full Season of Jazz Bliss
As a Full Season Subscriber to the Izzy Asper Jazz Performances, you are guaranteed a reserved seat or seats of your choice at each of the three performances, depending on your selected subscription level.
Please note that subscriptions levels vary in pricing because each subscription type includes a donation portion.
By purchasing a full season subscription, you’ll be directly helping us bring the world’s best jazz artists to Winnipeg. You will also receive a tax receipt for your donation portion.
Please scroll through the options below to find the subscription package that works for you.
Thank you for helping us keep the spirit of jazz alive!
