Gregory Porter has been announced as the first headline act for Cork Jazz Festival 2024.

That’s a-jazz away!

The first headline act for Guinness Cork Jazz Festival 2024 has just been announced with tickets expected to go fast!

Just in time for a last-minute Christmas present, the Guinness Cork Jazz Festival has announced its first headline act for 2024 – the incomparable Gregory Porter.

A double Grammy Award winner and renowned worldwide as one of the greatest jazz artists of our time, Porter is set to play Cork Opera House on 24 October 2024.

Fresh off his performances on 'The Late Late Show' and 'The Graham Norton Show', next year’s jazz fest will see Porter make a triumphant concert return to Ireland after a seven-year hiatus, his last full show having been in Dublin in 2017.

Porter's announcement is the first headline act to be confirmed for the Guinness Cork Jazz Festival 2024 as enters its 46th year.

Festival Director Mark Murphy said of Porter: “His talent is extraordinary and sets the bar as we create another stellar weekend line-up.

“We’re also again planning pop-up surprise events, late night parties, collaborations and brass bands marching through the city streets, so don’t miss out,” he added.

Porter has also just released his first Christmas album, ‘Christmas Wish’, a heartwarming tribute to the festive season and the timeless works of legendary artists such as Stevie Wonder, Ella Fitzgerald, Marvin Gaye, Dinah Washington, and Nat King Cole. The album, featuring three original tracks, showcases Porter's signature class and sophistication. Recorded in iconic studios including Sear Sound Studio in New York City and London's Crossways Studio and Abbey Road Studios, the album is out now on Blue Note/Decca Records.

Joining Porter on stage at the Cork Opera House will be his talented ensemble, including longtime pianist Chip Crawford, Emmanuel Harrold on drums and percussion, Gregoire Maret on harmonica, Jahmal Nichols on bass, Ondre Pivec on Hammond organ, and Tivon Pennicott on flute, soprano saxophone, and tenor saxophone.

Tickets for the performance on 24 Octoberwent on sale on Wednesday 20 December and are expected to fly out the door. They are priced at €55 + booking fee €60 + booking fee for seats.

Guinness Cork Jazz Festival will take place again over the October bank holiday weekend in 2024. For more information as it comes, keep an eye on guinnesscorkjazz.com or follow the festival on @GuinnessCorkJazz.

The Guinness Cork Jazz Festival is supported by Diageo, Fáilte Ireland, Cork City Council and Cork Airport.