The BNP Paribas Jazz Fest takes to the stage at the Royal Golf Club on December 5, with an all-star lineup of international talent.

The family-friendly festival, now in its ninth edition, features food trucks, art zones, play areas and interactive activities for kids as well as local market vendors selling artisan goodies and unique crafts.

But for those who are all about the music, the info you really want to know is the lineup. You won’t be disappointed.

GRAMMY award winner and three-time GRAMMY nominee jazz guitarist icon Frank Gambale with the All Stars, will light up the stage. This Australian jazz-fusion guitarist and composer is renowned for pioneering the sweep-picking technique and redefining modern jazz guitar. He leads an international ensemble of elite session musicians, performing high-energy sets that blend fusion, funk and contemporary jazz.

Look out for a fiery performance from Cuban jazz star Ana Carla Maza, a cellist, singer and composer celebrated for her dynamic blend of Latin rhythms, jazz and classical influences. A child prodigy who was raised in Havana’s musical tradition, she is the daughter of Chilean jazz guitarist Carlos Maza. Expect a mix of superb stage presence and lyrical elegance.

There’s an Italian touch from scat jazz celebrity Gege Telesforo and the Big Mama Legacy. This jazz vocalist, producer and radio host is celebrated for his mastery of scat and vocal improvisation. He’s collaborated with Jon Hendricks, Ben Sidran and The Brecker Brothers and fronts The Big Mama Legacy, an ensemble honouring Rome’s iconic Big Mama Club — the birthplace of Italy’s jazz scene. There’ll also be Latin jazz from European rising star and Swiss act, Manon Mullener 5tet, recognised for a fresh approach combining emotion and virtuosity. And funk jazz band Macumba are travelling in from Cyprus, while Abdulla Haji and the Rouh Collective will raise the Bahraini flag alongside the DMT Experience with their hip-hop jazz. There’ll be more local flavour in the shape of the Manama Singers and student bands from the British School of Bahrain, American School of Bahrain and St Christopher’s School. Throughout the day, DJ Zoot Suit Riot and DU$T will keep the crowds entertained.

And, to whet your appetite, November sees a whole host of warmup events with Yala Jazz, from community concerts and cinema screenings to school workshops and listening parties. Tickets to the BNP Paribas Jazz Fest start at BD22 for adults and BD11 for kids aged seven to 14, those under seven go free. ✤

GO: VISIT BAHRAINJAZZFEST.COM FOR MORE INFORMATION.