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By Eli J. Ridder

Medicine Hat JazzFest imports Calgary talent to replace outgoing director

Sep 12, 2024 | 10:00 AM

The Medicine Hat JazzFest is importing talent from Calgary to take over as a key figure takes a step back.

Lyle Rebbeck, who founded the festival decades ago, served as a combined artistic and executive director until leaving the role behind earlier this year.

Rebbeck will stick around as the administrative advisor to help out the two new organizers, the festival revealed on Thursday.

Gerry Hebert will come on-board as the festival’s new executive director and Kodi Hutchinson will be the new artistic director.

The pair worked as the production team for Calgary’s JazzYYC Festivals and bring years of experience to the roles, according to a news release.

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Not only are they talented when it comes to production, the pair is considered among the top jazz musicians in Canada.

Hebert said he wants to continue building on Rebbeck’s work.

“This festival has a rich history of bringing incredible music and community together, and I am excited to continue this great tradition,” he said in a statement.

“With the support of our amazing team and community, I look forward to building on the festival’s success and creating unforgettable experiences for all who attend.”

Hutchinson echoed that sentiment.

“With my long-standing connections to the city and under Lyle’s guidance, I look forward to bringing continued amazing experiences to Medicine Hat,” he said.

Hutchinson’s father Ken ran Hutchinson Architect Ltd. in Medicine Hat for over 25 years and was responsible for designing and facilitating the Big Marble Go Centre, the Saamis Teepee and other major projects.

Hebert and Hutchinson have assumed their roles and will soon start preparing for the 2025 edition of JazzFest.