Now more than ever before, let’s band together and spread the ethics of Jazz Day’s global movement around the planet and use this as a golden opportunity for humankind to reconnect especially in the midst of all this isolation and uncertainty.”
Herbie Hancock, UNESCO Goodwill Ambassador
Music of improvisation and collective creation
International Jazz Day raises awareness in the international community of the virtues of jazz as a force for peace, unity, dialogue and enhanced cooperation among people, as well as an educational tool. Many governments, civil society organizations, educational institutions, and private citizens currently engaged in the promotion of jazz music will embrace the opportunity to foster greater appreciation not only for the music but also for the contribution it can make to building more inclusive societies.
Why Jazz?
- Jazz breaks down barriers and creates opportunities for mutual understanding and tolerance;
- Jazz is a vector of freedom of expression;
- Jazz is a symbol of unity and peace;
- Jazz reduces tensions between individuals, groups, and communities;
- Jazz fosters gender equality;
- Jazz reinforces the role youth play for social change;
- Jazz encourages artistic innovation, improvisation, new forms of expression, and inclusion of traditional music forms into new ones;
- Jazz stimulates intercultural dialogue and empowers young people from marginalized societies.
In November 2011 the UNESCO General Conference proclaimed 30 April as “International Jazz Day”. This International Day brings together communities, schools, artists, historians, academics, and jazz enthusiasts all over the world to celebrate and learn about the art of jazz, its roots, its future and its impact. This important international art form is celebrated for promoting peace, dialogue among cultures, diversity, and respect for human rights and human dignity, eradicating discrimination, promoting freedom of expression, fostering gender equality, and reinforcing the role of youth for social change.
An Introduction to Jazz
with Herbie Hancock, James Morrison and Hancock Institute Fellows
UNESCO Goodwill Ambassador Herbie Hancock and internationally renowned trumpeter and bandleader James Morrison lead a master class exploring the history and artistry of jazz music.
2020 #JazzDayAtHome
The virtual global concert goes live on 30 April 2020 at 3pm EST.
Listen
Grammy award winning composer Antonio Sánchez defines jazz simply as “freedom”, highlighting its inclusive power to bring “different elements together, transforming it into something greater.”
Resources
Jazz is a flourishing of beauty born of oppression – the music of improvisation and collective creation.”
Audrey Azoulay
Director-General, UNESCO
