The aim was to channel the nostalgia of Jazz on the Square in years past, the Cultural Development Foundation has placed a renewed focus on local performers, students, and first-timers.

Cultural Director of the CDF, Barbara Jacobs-Small says keeping the nation’s culture front of mind will undoubtedly help spur economic growth.

“You go to cities all over the world and there are open spaces in the cities where you get to sample culture and you get to sample the work of creatives. You see public art, you see bustling people singing and performing and stuff like that,” she explained.

Jacobs-Small adds that the activities on the square allowed persons to take in a more relaxed version of Jazz, as opposed to attending the mainstage events.

“We have set it up in a manner that, for instance, a person who is not able to move between the different big events can get a sampling of the entire festival right here.”

Jazz is more than just sweet blues, explained the CDF’s Executive Director, Raymona Henry-Wynne. She says the CDF has made a special effort to include Calypso and solo performers.

“We have Saint Lucia School of Music. We have Eric Proteccri, Old Jazz, and there's a group coming out of France in Martinique. And we have KPT Soul. KPT Soul is really going to show you that Calypso does not only belong in the Carnival season, but has a life beyond Carnival.”

Jazz In The City forms part of the larger Jazz and Arts Festival Season with a host of fringe events across the country.