#Abu Dhabi #UNESCO #UAE #International Jazz Day

Abu Dhabi to Host International Jazz Day 2025

In April 2025, over 190 countries will celebrate the International Jazz Day, bringing together music lovers from around the globe. The highlight of this year's festivities will take place in Abu Dhabi, a city recognized as a UNESCO Creative City of Music. This event promises not only to be a celebration of jazz but also a demonstration of cultural unity and creativity.

A Celebration of Jazz and Culture

As per UNESCO Director-General Audrey Azoulay, the International Jazz Day 2025 will take place on April 30, showcasing Abu Dhabi's rich cultural heritage. The city will serve as the nexus for a myriad of jazz concerts and cultural initiatives that seek to unite communities and foster dialogue. The event aims to celebrate jazz as a powerful medium for bridging cultural gaps and promoting peace around the world.

Throughout the five weeks leading up to the festival, Abu Dhabi will come alive with a range of events. Concerts featuring both local and international jazz artists, educational programs, and community activities will be organized across the city, leading up to the grand finale - the All-Star Global Concert. This pinnacle of the celebrations will be held at the Etihad Arena, the largest venue in the region, with a star-studded lineup of renowned musicians.

Star-Studded Performances

The International Jazz Day 2025 will feature an impressive array of artists. Oscar-winner Jeremy Irons will host the Global Concert, with jazz legend Herbie Hancock serving as the musical director. Attendees will enjoy performances from prominent artists across various genres, including jazz, blues, classical, and hip-hop. Among the participating artists are:

• - Arqam Al Abri (UAE)
• - Dee Dee Bridgewater (USA)
• - Terri Lyne Carrington (USA)
• - José James (USA)
• - Kurt Elling (USA)
• - Dianne Reeves (USA)
• - Arturo Sandoval (USA)

This impressive lineup illustrates the inclusiveness of jazz, emphasizing its ability to unite diverse voices and musical traditions.

Global Reach

International Jazz Day has grown into a global movement since its inception in 2011, engaging millions of participants worldwide. Each year, communities celebrate through various activities like masterclasses, jam sessions, panel discussions, and workshops led by artists and educators. The events are designed to showcase the transformative power of jazz in promoting unity and joy.

The 2025 edition aligns with the Culture Summit occurring in Abu Dhabi, featuring discussions led by industry leaders and renowned artists, including Herbie Hancock. This confluence of events will further reinforce the cultural fabric of Abu Dhabi and highlight its commitment to nurturing creativity.

Activities Across the City

Celebrations will span major cultural institutions in Abu Dhabi, such as the Louvre Abu Dhabi, Berklee Abu Dhabi, and NYU Abu Dhabi, as well as hospitals, senior centers, and children's libraries. Special performances that fuse jazz with traditional instruments like the oud, qanun, and ney will also be part of this eclectic celebration.

International Jazz Day has evolved into a powerful symbol of cultural dialogue, highlighting the significance of music as a universal language that transcends borders. The global outreach of this event, which engages over 2 billion people annually, showcases the abiding importance of cultural cooperation and mutual respect.

Conclusion

The International Jazz Day 2025 promises to be an unforgettable experience, blending remarkable performances with a range of educational initiatives and cultural engagements. Those wishing to be part of this monumental event can find more information and purchase tickets through UNTV, UNESCO, and multiple media partners. For further details, visit the official websites: jazzday.com and unesco.org/en/international-jazz-day. Join in as we celebrate jazz, a music genre that continues to inspire creativity, promote peace, and connect communities worldwide.