UNESCO has announced the program for this year’s celebration of International Jazz Day taking place on Saturday, April 30.
Taking place in more than 180 countries, the theme of the event will be to emphasize “the importance of jazz as a means of achieving unity and peace through dialogue and diplomacy.”
The flagship All-Star Global Concert will feature performances by Randy Brecker, Marcus Miller, Joey Alexander, Hiromi, José James, Linda May Han Oh, Jeremy Pelt, Terri Lyne Carrington, Lizz Wright, Ravi Coltrane, Brian Blade and more.
Herbie Hancock will host the event at the UN General Assembly Hall in New York. John Beasley will serve as music director.
“With conflict and division in many parts of the world, it is my hope that, through the universal language of jazz, our celebration this year can inspire people of all nations to heal, to hope and to work together to foster peace,” said Hancock, co-chair of International Jazz Day.
“Jazz carries a universal message with the power to strengthen dialogue, our understanding of each other, and our mutual respect,” said Audrey Azoulay, director-general of UNESCO. “As the world is affected by multiple crises and conflicts, this international day highlights how much music and culture can contribute to peace.”
Earlier in the evening, UNESCO will hold a second edition of its JazzWomenAfrica concert series.
The International Jazz Day celebrations will also include a series of free, online education programs, with master classes led by Arturo O’Farrill, Terri Lyne Carrington and more.
You can see the full program at jazzday.com and watch the events on YouTube or Facebook.
Stay tuned for the announcement of JAZZ.FM91’s own International Jazz Day celebrations in Toronto.