Harmonizing Nations: The Global Symphony of International Jazz
- Road Scholar Music
- Apr 30, 2019
- 2 min read
Updated: Sep 6, 2023
Harmonizing Humanity: International Jazz Day Unveiled
In the harmonious spirit of promoting dialogue, tolerance, and peace through the universal language of music, April 30th annually marks the celebration of International Jazz Day, a global affair uniting nations and cultures in melodious solidarity.
A Global Musical Tapestry in Melbourne
Dated March 20, 2019, UNESCO Director-General Audrey Azoulay, alongside UNESCO Goodwill Ambassador Herbie Hancock, unveiled the resplendent program for the 2019 edition of International Jazz Day. The grand spectacle would kick off in Australia, with Melbourne playing host to a remarkable global concert featuring over 30 world-renowned artists. Among the luminaries gracing the stage were Herbie Hancock himself, along with James Morrison, Dee Dee Bridgewater, and Kurt Elling, to name a few.
A Symphony of Worldwide Participation
The jubilant festivities, spanning April 29th and 30th, promised a rich tapestry of jazz performances, educational programs, and community service initiatives. The Melbourne Conservatorium, University of Melbourne, was the esteemed partner in orchestrating these events. On the apex of the celebrations, April 30th, an All-Star Global Concert would reverberate through Melbourne Arts Centre's illustrious Hamer Hall. This momentous occasion would be webcast worldwide via YouTube, Facebook, the United Nations, and UNESCO, granting millions of viewers an auditory voyage transcending borders.
Maestros Unite: Hancock and Morrison Lead the Way
Two illustrious figures in the realm of jazz, Herbie Hancock from the United States and James Morrison hailing from Australia, took the helm as the artistic co-directors of the All-Star Global Concert. Guiding the musical symphony of the evening was the skilled hand of John Beasley from the USA. The concert ensemble featured a distinguished array of artists representing more than a dozen countries, a testament to jazz's international allure.
A Diverse Lineup of Musical Ambassadors
The roster of confirmed artists was nothing short of impressive, representing a global tapestry of talent. From Iran's Cieavash Arian to Australia's own William Barton, and from the USA's Dee Dee Bridgewater to Germany's Till Brönner, the stage would host an eclectic mix of jazz virtuosos. Igor Butman (Russian Federation), Eli Degibri (Israel), Kurt Elling (USA), and other luminaries would join the international ensemble in a harmonious celebration of jazz's universal language.
A Global Initiative for Harmony
Established in 2011 by the General Conference of UNESCO, driven by the vision of UNESCO Goodwill Ambassador Herbie Hancock, and officially recognized by the United Nations General Assembly, International Jazz Day serves as a beacon of unity. It brings together nations and communities worldwide on April 30th each year to celebrate jazz as an art form that fosters dialogue, combats discrimination, and upholds human dignity. The Herbie Hancock Institute of Jazz stands as UNESCO's steadfast partner in orchestrating and promoting the grandeur of International Jazz Day.
Events in Australia
:
Comments