More than 70 events took place at 30 venues, featuring award winning and internationally renowned musicians.

All ages were represented – from young children dancing in the New Orleans style jazz parade to Chris Barber who has had a love affair with jazz spanning six decades. Musicians and singers were flown in from America and Europe, including the amazing violinist, Tim Kliphuis, and Gospel singer, Shirley Alexander, while young jazz singer, Victoria Hart, jetted in fresh from performing at the Cannes Film Festival.

Festival director, Paul Sparks said they have been inundated with congratulations from visitors, sponsors, musicians, and venues: “Most of our ticketed events were sold out, restaurants were fully booked and the pubs, cafes and other venues were bouncing with Jazz fans experiencing fantastic music in a great friendly atmosphere.”

“We tried to give space to performers representing many different styles of jazz – from traditional, Hot Club, mainstream, modern and big band to some wild Cajun. There really was something for everyone.

“The third Newark Jazz Festival was a huge success and we look forward to seeing even more people in 2009. Put the date May 15 to 17 2009 in your diary!”

Fellow festival director, Peter Duncan agreed: “Once again, the Jazz Festival has brought Newark to life, filled the restaurants and bars and shops and firmly established our town as the place in the East Midlands to see and hear live jazz. Long may this continue to be the case."