Melbourne is hitting all the right notes as global host city for UNESCO’s International Jazz Day.
Millions of people around the globe are expected to stream and enjoy the All-Star Concert at Melbourne’s iconic Hamer Hall, bringing together a stellar line-up of artists from more than a dozen countries.
Victoria will be well represented on the main stage, with pianist Paul Grabowsky AO and trumpeter Matthew Jodrell joining the program.
For one aspiring young Australian musician it will also be an opportunity to see their composition performed by legends of the jazz world, following a national competition.
The All-Star Global Concert is the centerpiece of the International Jazz Day program, which is expected to see thousands of events and activities take place in almost 200 countries.
Co-directed by US jazz legend Herbie Hancock and Australia’s James Morrison, the concert will include exclusive collaborations and performances that span musical styles and languages.
International Jazz Day was established by UNESCO – the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation – in 2011 to celebrate jazz and its role in uniting people across the globe.
Victoria will celebrate with a range of performances, programs and community initiatives from April 29.
For a full list of International Jazz Day events or to watch the live stream, visit jazzday.com.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Creative Industries Martin Foley
“Melbourne is the live music capital of Australia and home to great jazz venues, festivals and musicians, as well as passionate audiences. We’re honoured to be the global host city for International Jazz Day 2019.”
“Jazz embraces and is strengthened by cultural diversity and this global event celebrates how music transcends borders and languages to bring us together.”
Quote attributable to International Jazz Day All Star Global Concert Artistic Co-Director James Morrison
“Never before has Melbourne seen these artists together in one concert, and the world will be watching as 190 countries and more than 1 billion people join in the celebration.”
“International Jazz Day is a chance for the music to speak its message to the world – we’re all in this together.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020