New Northern: YardFest - building a community with live music
"Having some external support makes a massive difference because I think you have to have a lot of resilience..."
In our fourth New Northern feature Helena Summerfield talked to Nanette Brimble about YardFest. Nanette applied for a New Northern bursary to help support the fortnightly YardFest Jazz night in Saltaire, Bradford by topping up its ability to fund a varied programme to include more local emerging artists.
Nanette's journey into jazz promotion in the Bradford area is a testament to her passion for the music, her commitment to community, and her proactive approach to supporting local talent.
“I’m a really passionate believer in giving musicians a chance to perform and to kind of hone that craft... They need as many playing opportunities as they can get really and that’s part of everything that I do.”
Starting with a small initiative at a village festival, she has organically grown YardFest into a significant local event. Her response to the challenges faced by musicians during the pandemic led to the creation of the successful Yardfest Jazz. This has been further amplified by the support of a Jazz North New Northern bursary. Her recent recognition at the Bradford Music Awards underscores her significant contribution to the local music scene. Ultimately, Nanette's work is driven by a desire to create inclusive and vibrant musical experiences that bring people together.
Listen to the YardFest Jazz Hour on BCB 106.6 https://www.mixcloud.com/YardFestSaltaire/
Next gig
Wed 26 Mar 2025 19:30-21:30 YardFest Emerging Artists: Paper Daisies / Jascha Bingham Trio