Kildare Jazz Festival announces ‘Emerging Act’

HAYLEY Kavanagh has been selected as the 2026 Emerging Act for the Kildare Jazz Festival at the Riverbank in Newbridge from 27-29 March.

Hayley is a saxophonist, flautist and composer from Dublin who has made a name for herself on the scene in recent years both as an active band leader, as well as an in-demand collaborator and sideman.

Her music is punchy, bluesy and angular with “pithy hooks over catchy basslines”.

Deeply rooted in tradition, but with a distinct personality, it has “an uncanny quality of sounding both familiar and new at the same time”.

Following an impressive response from emerging jazz artists across Ireland, the selection panel was struck by Hayley’s originality, musicality and stage presence.

The Emerging Act Open Call was established to spotlight new voices in Irish jazz and to provide a professional platform as part of the festival’s main programme.

A spokesperson, on behalf of the selection panel, said “Hayley’s music showed maturity and direction”.

They added: “Her track record showed that she is at a point in her career where having the exposure of performing at Kildare Jazz festival will be highly beneficial and hopefully a catalyst for great things in the near future!” 

Speaking about being selected, Hayley said:” I’m absolutely delighted to have been selected for the emerging act slot in Kildare Jazz Festival 2026”.

“Given how vibrant the Irish music scene is right now, I can only imagine how high the competition was, so it’s a real honour, and I’m very excited and grateful for the opportunity!” 

Hayley and her quintet, featuring Scott Flanigan on piano, Eric Doyle on guitar, Dave Redmond on double bass, and Michael McCarthy on drums, will take to the stage in Riverbank at 7pm on Friday 27 March, officially launching the 2026 festival weekend.

Now in its third iteration, Kildare Jazz Festival continues to champion both established and emerging artists, presenting a packed three-day programme of live performances, workshops and family friendly events in the heart of Newbridge.

Tickets are available to book online on riverbank.ie or via the Box Office on 045 448327, Monday to Friday 9.30am-5pm (closed for lunch 2-2.30) and Saturday 10am-3pm.