The Global Celebration of International Jazz Day 2025 Concludes with a Star-Studded Concert in Abu Dhabi

The Grand Finale of International Jazz Day 2025

On April 30, 2025, the 14th International Jazz Day celebrated its grand finale with a spectacular All-Star Concert held at the Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. This year’s event was presented by the Oscar-winning actor Jeremy Irons and masterfully directed by the legendary Herbie Hancock.

The concert featured an impressive array of international talent from 14 different countries, showcasing the global influence and connection of jazz music. Well-known artists such as Dee Dee Bridgewater, José James, and John McLaughlin illuminated the stage with unforgettable performances. These world-class musicians not only entertained but also embodied the spirit of jazz as a unifying genre that transcends boundaries.

A Memorable Opening Ceremony

Before the concert, a significant Opening Ceremony took place at Qasr Al Watan, Abu Dhabi’s exquisite Nation Palace. This event welcomed Jazz Day festivities with remarks from Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of the Department of Culture and Tourism. The UNESCO Deputy Director-General for Culture, Ernesto Ottone, emphasized the importance of jazz in fostering intercultural dialogue and mutual respect. Herbie Hancock’s poignant solo performance of “Maiden Voyage” was a highlight, alongside an enchanting traditional Arabic music presentation by local artists.

Highlights from the All-Star Concert

One of the standout moments of the All-Star Concert included Dee Dee Bridgewater’s spirited rendition of “The Thrill Is Gone,” performed in collaboration with John McLaughlin and John Pizzarelli. The renowned concert pianist Hélène Mercier from Paris joined forces with rising star A Bu from Beijing for a breathtaking duet of George Gershwin’s “Rhapsody in Blue,” seamlessly connecting two continents through their musical expression.

Arturo Sandoval, David Sánchez, and Danilo Pérez paid tribute to Dizzy Gillespie with a dynamic version of “Tin Tin Deo,” showcasing the vibrant energy of jazz fusion. McLaughlin thrilled the audience with his original composition “As The Spirit Sings,” while Dianne Reeves brought emotional depth to her performance of “Someone to Watch Over Me.” José James closed his set with a unique spin on the Rolling Stones classic “Miss You,” infusing it with his soulful jazz flair.

The concert concluded with the traditional finale of John Lennon’s “Imagine,” a universal anthem of peace that resonated throughout the arena, leaving the audience in a collective celebration of harmony and unity through music.

Community Outreach Programs

The celebration of Jazz Day in Abu Dhabi extended far beyond the concert, featuring numerous community outreach programs that introduced the art of jazz to aspiring musicians and young audiences. These events included workshops, master classes, and interactive sessions held at notable venues like Berklee Abu Dhabi and the Cultural Foundation. Noteworthy collaborations with the Abu Dhabi Cultural Summit included a special concert at the Louvre Abu Dhabi and a thought-provoking roundtable discussion between Herbie Hancock and John Ridding, CEO of the Financial Times.

Globally, thousands of performances, educational programs, and improvisational sessions took place in over 190 countries, all emphasizing the power of jazz to bring individuals together in celebration of creativity and peace.

Looking Ahead

UNESCO, which officially recognizes International Jazz Day, announced that the next celebration in 2026 will be hosted in Chicago, the birthplace of Herbie Hancock. This transition from Abu Dhabi to Chicago symbolizes the continuous journey of jazz as an influential and unifying force in the world.

International Jazz Day occurs annually on April 30 and serves as a reminder of jazz's capacity to elevate cultural awareness and promote mutual respect, demonstrating the dignity and worth of every human being. The Department of Culture and Tourism of Abu Dhabi played a vital role as the host city for the 2025 International Jazz Day, with substantial global support from the Doris Duke Foundation and assistance from United Airlines.

For more resources and recordings from the event, visit jazzday.com and unesco.org.