Queensland’s biennial arts festival brings in the big brass.

The Queensland Music Festival has appointed Australian jazz legend James Morrison as Artistic Director. Replacing Deborah Conway, he takes the reins of the biennial event in 2013 and 2015.

The 49-year-old trumpeter/multi-instrumentalist says he sees the role as an exciting new chapter in his musical career: “Having spent many years performing all over Queensland, I have an appreciation for the breadth of music this state has to offer.

“I’m very much looking forward to working with the QMF team to continue and expand the spectacular work for which this Festival is renowned,” he added.

QMF Chair Kate Farrar praised the incoming director’s experience as a music educator “who will champion the community development aspects so important to the Festival.”

The Queensland Music Festival presents the best of local, national and international talent performing in a broad range of music genres and styles. Events and concerts extend from Brisbane to regional and remote centres, Thursday Island and the Gold Coast.

Last year’s offerings garnered record audience attendence of 178,000 people.