#Abu Dhabi #United Arab Emirates #Herbie Hancock #Jazz Day

International Jazz Day 2025: A Global Musical Celebration in Abu Dhabi

The International Jazz Day 2025 is set to make waves on April 30, as it gathers musicians and audiences from over 190 countries, with Abu Dhabi honored as the Global Host City. This prestigious event is organized by UNESCO and the Herbie Hancock Institute of Jazz, symbolizing a celebration of musical heritage, collaboration, and the universal appeal of jazz.

UNESCO Director-General Audrey Azoulay expressed excitement about hosting this year's celebration in Abu Dhabi, a city recognized for its rich cultural diversity and creativity. She articulated the mission of this event: to showcase the unifying ability of jazz to bridge communities, fostering dialogue and peace across continents.

Abu Dhabi, known for its vibrant cultural landscape, will host a series of performances, educational initiatives, and community events over five weeks leading up to the big day. The highlight of the celebration will be the International Jazz Day 2025 All-Star Global Concert, which will take place at the Etihad Arena, the region's largest indoor venue, on April 30.

A Star-Studded Concert

The concert will feature a remarkable lineup led by the legendary pianist, Herbie Hancock. The renowned Oscar-winning actor Jeremy Irons will serve as the event's host. A diverse array of artists from various genres will perform, including notable names such as Arqam Al Abri from the UAE, John Beasley from the USA, and Dee Dee Bridgewater, who also hails from the USA. The lineup will include talents from around the globe, representing countries like China, Morocco, and India, demonstrating the international nature of jazz.

This year's concert is designed not just to entertain but also to reflect the essence of jazz, which has always been about bringing people together and encouraging cultural creativity. Hancock emphasized that the beauty of jazz lies in its ability to transcend boundaries and ignite conversations full of hope and joy. Tickets for this global spectacle can be purchased online, and it will also be broadcasted live across various platforms, including UNTV, Facebook, YouTube, and more.

Community Engagement and Education

In addition to the grand concert, International Jazz Day will be marked by thousands of events worldwide. Artists, educators, and institutions will host masterclasses, jam sessions, panel discussions, and educational workshops, reflecting the profound impact of jazz as a unifying force. These initiatives remind us that jazz is more than music; it’s a way to connect and share experiences across cultures.

In Abu Dhabi, activities will unfold across prominent cultural and educational venues, including the Louvre Abu Dhabi, Berklee Abu Dhabi, and NYU Abu Dhabi, while also reaching out to community spaces like hospitals, senior centers, and children’s libraries. Jazz will merge with traditional instruments, such as the Oud, Qanoon, and Ney, providing a rich tapestry of sound and culture that reflects Abu Dhabi's uniqueness.

Cultural Summit and Broader Impact

Coinciding with the International Jazz Day celebrations, Abu Dhabi will also host a cultural summit that gathers leading figures in the cultural and creative industries. The summit will feature discussions led by Herbie Hancock and other prominent artists, focusing on the role of arts in fostering dialogue and understanding.

The International Jazz Day initiative, established by UNESCO in 2011 and recognized by the United Nations General Assembly, underscores the transformative power of jazz in promoting peace, cultural dialogue, and respect for human dignity. This annual event has evolved into a worldwide movement, reaching over 2 billion people each year. The Herbie Hancock Institute of Jazz, a non-profit organization, takes the lead in organizing these celebrations, ensuring that the message of jazz resonates far and wide.

For further information and event registrations, visit www.jazzday.com or www.unesco.org/en/international-jazz-day to join in this global celebration of harmony and creativity through music.