On the 30th of April annually, International Jazz Day is observed globally, paying tribute to the essence of creative liberty. The 2025 edition of International Jazz Day will be hosted in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, as announced by UNESCO Director-General Audrey Azoulay and UNESCO Goodwill Ambassador Herbie Hancock.
The event is organized in collaboration with the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi), and will focus on the rich cultural heritage of Arab and Emirati traditions. Traditional instruments such as Oud, Qanoon, and Ney will be used to introduce international audiences to the concept of ‘Arabic Jazz’. As the host city for the 2025 Global Host City, Abu Dhabi, recognized as a UNESCO Creative City of Music, will highlight the fusion of local musical customs with Jazz, which has been a part of the city’s musical landscape for many years.
Educational initiatives and community engagement are essential components of the event, in addition to the concert. Abu Dhabi will host music education programs in local schools on 30 April. Prestigious higher education institutions such as Berklee Abu Dhabi, New York University Abu Dhabi, and other universities in the UAE will provide workshops and masterclasses in various venues on their campuses. Emphasis will be placed on involving young musicians, motivating them to nurture their passion for music and consider a future in jazz.
In 2011, the General Conference of UNESCO established International Jazz Day, which has been acknowledged by the United Nations General Assembly. Celebrated annually on 30 April, this day unites nations and communities globally to honor the art of jazz, highlighting its ability to foster unity, encourage dialogue, uphold freedom of expression, and promote respect for human rights and diversity.
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