Baku Jazz Festival Kicks Off with a Harmonious Evening at "Unbar"

Baku/07.10.23/Turan: The 2023 Baku Jazz Festival commenced in grand style on October 6th at 19:00 local time, with a captivating opening ceremony held at the chic restaurant "Unbar." The festival, which runs from October 6th to October 15th, promises to be a celebration of jazz that bridges cultures and fosters international harmony.

The event began with a welcoming address from Salman Haji, Advisor on Cultural Affairs of the American Embassy, who unveiled a special surprise for jazz enthusiasts. Mr. Haji revealed that the American Embassy is a proud sponsor of this year's festival, highlighting the commitment to sharing the universal language of jazz with Azerbaijani audiences and music lovers from around the world. He stated, "We are proud to share our love for jazz together with Azerbaijanis, Americans, and citizens of all countries here."

In his eloquent speech, the ambassador delved into the rich history of jazz music, tracing its roots and evolution over the decades. Jazz, often described as America's greatest gift to the world of music, continues to captivate audiences worldwide with its rhythm and improvisation.

The founder and artistic director of the festival, Rain Sultanov, also graced the stage, offering insights into the exciting program of the Baku Jazz Festival. Sultanov's passion for jazz and commitment to nurturing its growth in Azerbaijan have been pivotal in establishing this event as a cultural cornerstone.

Following these heartfelt addresses, the stage came alive with the performances of renowned jazz musicians. Feti Blue&Sinem from Turkey, Vadim Abramov, the Bakuba band, and DJ Graf filled the night with soulful and captivating melodies. Local jazz performers, also present at the opening, added a distinctive Azerbaijani flavor to the festivities.

The Baku Jazz Festival is set to captivate audiences at various venues across the city, including the Mugham Center, Heydar Aliyev Center, and Gurban Said restaurant. The festival program encompasses a wide range of events, including a jazz competition, "Jam session," a meet-and-greet with the winners, and an art exhibition titled "White Birds of Jazz" by Eldar Gurbanov.

This year's festival marks the continuation of a cherished tradition that has been enchanting audiences since 2005. The festival's core team, consisting of Rain Sultanov (founder and artistic director), Rauf Aliyev (President of "I am Jazzman" association), and Leyla Efendiyeva (Festival Director and Editor of Jazz World magazine), has been instrumental in its success. In 2006, it earned its place on the prestigious list of the world's largest jazz festivals, emphasizing its importance in fostering cultural ties between nations and preserving the vibrant history of Azerbaijani Jazz.

As the Baku Jazz Festival unfolds over the coming days, it promises to unite people through the power of music and continue its legacy of promoting harmony and cultural exchange. Jazz enthusiasts and music aficionados alike can look forward to an enchanting journey through the world of jazz, brought to life by talented musicians from across the globe.