Originally published on metropolis.co.jp on October 2009

It’s turning out to be a good autumn for jazz fans with tight budgets. Hot on the heels of last month’s free Swing Akasaka comes the fifth edition of the Ginza International Jazz Festival—and it won’t cost you a penny. Launched by the area’s posh boutiques, GIJF hearkens back to the prewar era when Ginza was the center of Tokyo nightlife. Instead of spreading concerts over the neighborhood, as in the past, this year’s event takes the form of one big show at the venerable Kabuki-za, which is slated to be torn down soon. Headliners range from 15-year-old Canadian singing phenom Nikki Yanofsky (pictured) to Japanese sax legend Sadao Watanabe, who will perform with the winners of the 40th Yamano Big Band Jazz Contest. Ticket applications must be sent by October 10.

“Ginza International Jazz Festival”
Canadian vocalist Nikki, Sadao Watanabe Group and others. Oct 27, 3pm, free (reservation required). Kabukiza, Ginza. Tel: 03-5793-3524. www.ginza.jp/ginzajazz/