Various venues, Galway Thurs 19th-Sun 22nd www.townhalltheatregalway.com

Proof that diversity and accessibility can be combined with quality and imaginative programming is in the four-day Galway Jazz Festival. That will see the first visit of one of Norway’s most innovative groups, led by Trygve Seim, the country’s most celebrated saxophonist since Jan Garbarek. Seim leads a tentet with some of Norway’s finest musicians, including trumpeter Arve Henriksen and accordionist Frode Haltli.

The following days also offer much, including singer Rebecca Martin with bassist Larry Grenadier (US), Britain’s acclaimed Polar Bear and Germany’s Julia Hulsmann Trio. A strong local representation includes Metier, the Francesco Turrisi Trio, Matthew Berrill’s Galway Allstars and a three-guitar concert featuring Hugh Buckley, John Feely and America’s John Stowell.

Meanwhile, there is more to savour in the first visit of the internationally acclaimed Dutch pianist Michiel Borstlap, who leads a highly swinging and attractive trio, noted for its ability to set up an infectious groove.

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Laubrock-Rainey-Guilfoyle-Buckley Sunday, Dublin