After pulling through a 2023 season that’s been challenging for many of the city’s arts groups, Vancouver’s Coastal Jazz is asking the public to help move the organization forward.

Responsible for programming the Vancouver International Jazz Festival, Coastal Jazz is looking for donations as its financial year winds down.

The pitch? That would be this:

At Coastal Jazz, we are strong believers that music and the arts should be barrier-free. It’s why we provide high-quality, free programming and work with youth music programmes to nurture up and coming artists who can influence the next generation of music lovers. That’s where you come in.

As we approach the end of our financial year, we find ourselves on the cusp of achieving our fundraising goal, with just $7500 left to reach our target! If you are able to contribute - $25, $50, $100 or any amount that you find comfortable - please do so today!

The Vancouver International Jazz Festival navigated the postpandemic world this past summer by scaling back its offering, while also remaining committed to free programming around the city.

Adding to the financial challenges of 2023 was the loss of its long-time sponsor TD Bank.

In a June interview with the Straight, executive director Nina Horvath said there was little doubt the festival would be going ahead, with government pandemic-relief funding helping getting it through its 38th year.

As for Coastal Jazz, the organization's programming runs year round, with upcoming shows including the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra with Wynton Marsalis at the Orpheum on October 10, and former Police guitarist Andy Summers at the Vancouver Playhouse on November 9.

Need another reason to give? Watch below. And then go here.