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 are about to drop their first note. And trust us, you’ll want to be in the room when it happens.
This season kicks off with a bang, a swing, and a whole lotta soul.
Whether you’re a seasoned jazzhead or just jazz-curious, this show is your golden ticket into a year of unforgettable music.
Take a look below at this year’s full line-up and secure your individual seats or full season subscriptions before it’s too late.
Benny sings. Benny swings. And Benny blows that horn like it’s a direct line to the stars.
Benny Benack III is the real deal. He is fresh off being named Rising Star Male Vocalist and clocking in at #8 for Rising Star Trumpeter in the 2025 DownBeat Readers Poll.
Translation? The jazz world is watching, and you get to catch him live, right here in Winnipeg.
One weekend. Two chances. October 4 and October 5. Don’t sleep on this. Whether it’s your first time hearing live jazz or your hundredth, this show is one for the books.
If you still don’t have your tickets, now’s the time.
CLICK HERE to secure your seat to see Benny live before they’re all gone!
When T.K. Blue hits the stage, you’re not just getting jazz. You’re getting an entire diasporic sound journey that spans continents, cultures, and decades.
Flute. Sax. Spirit. Groove.
Born in NYC to Caribbean roots, T.K.’s sound is a deep and joyful fusion of jazz, Afro-Caribbean rhythm, and African soul. He’s played with legends, learned from masters, and carved out a voice all his own. A voice that swings hard, speaks truth, and always gets your head nodding.
This is not background music. This is movement music. Music with roots.
You’ve got two chances to catch him 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!
