Ontario Festival to Premiere Previously Unreleased Gene DiNovi Composition During Three-Day Celebration of Canadian Music
The South Coast Jazz Festival is set to return for its 13th edition from Aug. 14 to 16, bringing a weekend of performances, educational programming and cultural events to Brantford and Port Dover, Ontario. This year’s festival will feature the world premiere of previously unreleased music by acclaimed Canadian jazz pianist Gene DiNovi, alongside a lineup of Canadian artists representing jazz, blues, folk, Indigenous music and multilingual performances.
Over the past 13 years, the festival has evolved from a single community event into a significant cultural attraction for rural Ontario. Organizers say it has generated more than $1 million in tourism spending while partnering with hundreds of community organizations. The festival has also earned international recognition, including being identified by The Wall Street Journal as one of the world’s travel-worthy festivals.
Gene DiNovi Tribute Headlines 2026 Festival
A major highlight of the 2026 festival is a tribute to Gene DiNovi, one of Canada’s most respected jazz pianists, composers and arrangers. DiNovi built an international career performing and recording with artists including Peggy Lee, Carmen McRae, Nancy Wilson and Lena Horne. He was discovered by Dizzy Gillespie and joined the legendary trumpeter’s band in New York City at the age of 16.
The tribute is being produced by festival founder, executive and artistic director Juliann Kuchocki, who will also return to the festival stage with her first full performance there in 13 years.
The performance coincides with the release of Kuchocki’s new album, Kuchocki Sings DiNovi, But Only For You, featuring Canadian musicians with Grammy and JUNO credentials.
The evening’s centrepiece will be the public debut of a previously unreleased Gene DiNovi composition written with Peggy Lee, offering audiences a rare opportunity to hear a piece of jazz history performed for the first time.
“After thirteen years, South Coast Jazz has become so much more than a music festival,” said founder, executive and artistic director Juliann Kuchocki. “It’s a celebration of community, culture, collaboration and Canadian excellence. This year’s festival is particularly meaningful because we’re bringing together legendary artists, emerging talent, Indigenous programming, youth workshops, internationally acclaimed musicians in one weekend that truly reflects who we are as Canadians.”
Canadian Artists and Diverse Musical Programming
The festival’s main event will also feature Red Hot Ramble, a Canadian traditional jazz ensemble known for its New Orleans-inspired swing and blues performances.
“Port Dover peeps love to dance,” said Kuchocki, describing the group’s connection with festival audiences.
Additional performances include Indigenous artist Jai King Green, the Carla Muller Band, and an interactive Cuban music and dance session designed to broaden the festival’s cultural programming.
“Canada’s story is one of many cultures, traditions and musical voices,” Kuchocki said. “Jazz has always embraced collaboration and diversity, so it felt natural to bring together Indigenous artists, French and English performances, folk traditions, blues, Latin influences and contemporary jazz into one festival. When audiences experience different cultures together, barriers disappear and communities grow stronger.”
Festival Expands Community and Youth Engagement
The festival begins on Aug. 14 with the Jazzin’ Juniors Youth Showcase and workshops in Brantford. Organizers confirmed the educational program has already sold out, reflecting growing demand for youth-focused music initiatives.
The main concert takes place on Aug. 15 at the Port Dover Community Centre beginning at 5 p.m.
Programming concludes on Aug. 16 at Glenhyrst Gardens in Brantford with an afternoon performance beginning at 1 p.m. The closing event will feature Le Trio Parisien with vocalist Juliet Dunn and special guest Thom Atkins.
Accessibility and Visitor Experience
Festival organizers say accessibility remains a priority, with fully accessible venues, American Sign Language interpretation for television editions and a complimentary designated driver shuttle service available upon email request.
Advance ticket reservations are encouraged as free general admission and VIP seating are limited. The first 100 VIP ticket holders will receive reserved table seating.
Complete festival schedules and ticket information are available through the South Coast Jazz Festival website and Eventbrite.
Festival Schedule
August 14, 2026
- Jazzin’ Juniors Youth Showcase – Brantford, Ontario (Sold Out)
August 15, 2026
- Main Event – Port Dover Community Centre, Port Dover, Ontario
- Start Time: 5 p.m.
August 16, 2026
- Glenhyrst Gardens – Brantford, Ontario
- Start Time: 1 p.m.