Why is Antigonish a hotspot for jazz?

You might not expect a rural Nova Scotia town of 5,000 to be a hotbed for international jazz talent, but Antigonish is full of surprises. In this week’s episode, we sit down with Jake Hanlon, chair of St. FX's music department, and Paul Tynan, Artistic Director of the Antigonish Jazz Fest, to explore the remarkable musical ecosystem in our backyard. From hosting Canada's first jazz studies degree program to bringing Grammy winners like Pacific Mambo Orchestra and legends like Herbie Hancock's Headhunters to intimate local venues, our town has become one of Canada's most important east coast jazz destinations. Discover St. FX's legendary visiting artist program attracting world-renowned musicians from Mongolia to Barcelona, learn about regular student gigs around town, and find out how a tourism initiative became a festival drawing music lovers across the Maritimes—whether you're a jazz aficionado or have never entered the Schwartz Auditorium to hear a student recital, this conversation will give you new appreciation for the extraordinary musical talent performing in your community. And it’s not just jazz (as Jake and Paul point out): Antigonish is home to the Antigonish Performing Arts Series, a ton of local bands, traditional sessions and ceilidhs, and more. We really punch above our weight when it comes to music in this town!StFX Music DepartmentAntigonish Jazz Fest websiteStFX Music’s Instagram account Get full access to Let's Talk Antigonish at letstalkantigonish.substack.com/subscribe