Immanuel Wilkins live in Montreal

Experience Immanuel Wilkins live on June 27th

Immanuel Wilkins is a contemporary American jazz saxophonist and composer recognized for his intensely lyrical and spiritually-rooted approach to the alto saxophone. His music blends elements of post-bop, free improvisation, and gospel traditions, often exploring themes of Black American history and identity. He frequently incorporates extended techniques and dynamic phrasing within complex harmonic structures, creating a sound that is both deeply personal and powerfully expressive. Wilkins has released several critically acclaimed albums including “Omega” and “The 7”.

The Montreal International Jazz Festival, taking place on June 27th, 2026, is one of the world’s largest jazz festivals. Established in 1980, it has grown from a ten-day event with 17 venues to an eleven-day festival encompassing over 1000 concerts – roughly half of which are free outdoor performances. The festival historically showcases a diverse range of jazz styles, from traditional New Orleans jazz to avant-garde experimentation, alongside related genres like blues, funk, and world music. It’s known for attracting both established international artists and emerging talent, contributing significantly to Montreal’s cultural landscape and attracting hundreds of thousands of visitors annually.