The Kitchener Blues Festival marked its 26th year with a charity concert in Victoria Park on Thursday night. Bill Durst, a musician from Stratford, was the first to take the stage. “This is a big, unique event in Canada,” he said. “It’s not just Ontario, and we’ve all got to be proud of this, right? So, if I can be part of it, then I’m thrilled.” Durst will also receive the Mel Brown Award this weekend. Named after the legendary musician who called Kitchener home, it recognizes artists who have made a major contribution to the genre. “I’m not a regular blues guy, I’m a little heavier,” Durst said of his playing style. “I’m a little rock too, and that [recognition] just made my heart sing.” Sass Jordan and The Fabulous Thunderbirds also gave Thursday’s audience a show to remember. More than 50 acts are set to perform over the course of the four-day festival at venues in the city’s downtown core. Organizers said diversity is key component of the lineup. “It’s more about sea-to-sea-to-sea,” explained festival president Peter Beacock. “We’re trying to take all three of the Canadian coasts… bringing their version of blues roots music to the audience.” The Kitchener Blues Festival has always been about expanding the musical horizons of listeners. “Buddy Guy, in my opinion, is the last living legend of that genre. It’s going to change, and you’re going to see that change this weekend,” Beacock promised. “I don’t care if you’ve been in Canada for a week or you’re fifth-generation, there’s something for everyone.” Organizers also described the event as a passion project. “Every dollar of profit gets plowed right back into this festival for next year,” said Beacock. “We spend piles of money on infrastructure, as you can imagine. There’s a new video system at this stage, always the best sound and lighting technology as well.” The festival continues Friday with performances starting at 3 p.m. in front of Kitchener City Hall.
