International Jazz Day to be Hosted in Africa for First Time

Once again, spring brings swing — in the form of International Jazz Day.

Seeking to promote peace and intercultural dialogue, the four-day extravaganza from April 27 to April 30 will be hosted in Tangier, Morocco, marking the first time that the event will be anchored on the African continent. With a lineup of top musicians from all over the planet, the festivities will showcase Tangier's rich jazz heritage and the artistic ties between Morocco and the rest of Africa as well as Europe. In addition, the onsite education programming includes a presentation about the cultural importance of Morocco's traditional Gnawa music and its relation to jazz.

The celebration culminates in the All-Star Global Concert, taking place on April 30 at the Palace of Arts and Culture of Tangier and streaming via YouTube, Facebook, and JazzDay.com. A UNESCO Goodwill Ambassador for Intercultural Dialogue, legendary pianist and composer Herbie Hancock will lead the All-Star Global Concert alongside Grammy-winning pianist and musical director John Beasley.

More than 190 countries participate in International Jazz Day as thousands of educational activities, community service initiatives, and concerts are held at performing arts venues, clubs, libraries, and parks. GRoW has supported International Jazz Day since 2020, and more information about the festivities can be found here.