Latest news with #HerbieHancockInstituteofJazz
Arabian Post
05-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Arabian Post
Abu Dhabi's Etihad Arena Resonates with Jazz Luminaries in Global Celebration
A constellation of jazz virtuosos illuminated Abu Dhabi's Etihad Arena on April 30, marking the culmination of the 14th International Jazz Day. The event, orchestrated by UNESCO and the Herbie Hancock Institute of Jazz, showcased a tapestry of performances that underscored jazz's enduring global resonance. Herbie Hancock, the event's artistic director, led a diverse ensemble of musicians from 14 countries. The concert featured luminaries such as Dee Dee Bridgewater, John McLaughlin, Dianne Reeves, and Marcus Miller, each bringing their unique flair to the stage. Hosted by Academy Award-winning actor Jeremy Irons, the evening was a testament to jazz's unifying power. The program commenced with Hancock's introspective rendition of 'Maiden Voyage,' setting a contemplative tone. A standout moment was the duet between Parisian pianist Hélène Mercier and Beijing's A Bu, who delivered a stirring interpretation of Gershwin's 'Rhapsody in Blue,' blending classical precision with jazz improvisation. Arturo Sandoval, David Sánchez, and Danilo Pérez paid homage to Dizzy Gillespie with a spirited performance of 'Tin Tin Deo,' while José James infused The Rolling Stones' 'Miss You' with soulful nuances. The finale, a collective rendition of John Lennon's 'Imagine,' encapsulated the evening's ethos of unity and hope, resonating deeply with the international audience. Earlier in the day, the Opening Ceremony at Qasr Al Watan, the presidential palace, featured addresses by Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of the Department of Culture and Tourism, and UNESCO Assistant Director-General for Culture Ernesto Ottone. The ceremony highlighted the UAE's commitment to cultural dialogue and the arts. Beyond the main concert, Abu Dhabi hosted a series of educational and outreach programs. Institutions like Berklee Abu Dhabi, Bait Al Oud, and the Cultural Foundation facilitated workshops and performances, engaging both youth and seasoned musicians. A notable collaboration with the Culture Summit Abu Dhabi included a panel discussion featuring Hancock and Financial Times CEO John Ridding, exploring jazz's role in contemporary culture. See also Dubai to Build 1.4km Bridge Linking Bur Dubai and Dubai Islands This year's International Jazz Day was observed in over 190 countries, with thousands of events celebrating the genre's rich heritage and its capacity to foster cross-cultural understanding. UNESCO Director-General Audrey Azoulay emphasized the day's significance, stating, 'This edition highlights the city's rich tapestry of creativity and cultural heritage while showcasing jazz's ability to connect communities and promote dialogue and peace across continents.'
Yahoo
31-03-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Scholastic Spotlight: DMPS Jazz Experience & Oskaloosa Book Update
Des Moines Public Schools were one of 20 high schools around the country to have the Herbie Hancock Institute of Jazz visit their schools last week. The experience teaches high school students about the basics of jazz and its history. Oskaloosa Elementary School is celebrating a grant that will allow them to refresh their non-fiction section. The book refresh and jazz experience are both this week's Scholastic Spotlight. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
The National
26-03-2025
- Entertainment
- The National
Jazz pioneer Herbie Hancock and Oscar-winner Jeremy Irons to lead International Jazz Day concert in Abu Dhabi
Grammy Award – winning jazz pioneer Herbie Hancock and Oscar-winning actor Jeremy Irons will lead a concert in Abu Dhabi celebrating International Jazz Day. The All-Star Global Concert at Etihad Arena on April 30, organised by Unesco and the Herbie Hancock Institute of Jazz, will be hosted by Irons, with Hancock leading a stellar line-up of jazz luminaries including bassist Marcus Miller and US vocalists Dee Dee Bridgewater and Terri Lyne Carrington. Regional talent will also take centre stage, including renowned Iraqi oud player Naseer Shamma, Moroccan percussionist Rhani Krija, and rising Emirati vocalist Arqam Al Abri. The line-up is rounded out by Cuban-American jazz trumpeter Arturo Sandoval and French-Canadian pianist Helene Mercier. The concert will also be streamed on and Unesco's social media channels. 'Jazz has always been about bringing people together, breaking barriers, and inspiring creativity across cultures. International Jazz Day reminds us that music has the power to transcend borders, foster dialogue, and spark joy and hope,' Hancock said. The All-Star Global Concert is part of a series of jazz-themed events taking place across Abu Dhabi throughout the week. On April 29, Berklee Abu Dhabi will host Jazz Night, featuring a line-up of international talent. Performing at the Saadiyat Island institution are Grammy Award – winning American bassist and vocalist Esperanza Spalding, Lebanese singer Mayssa Karaa and acclaimed Turkish clarinettist Husnu Senlendirici. Also on April 29, the Abu Dhabi Festival will present a jazz concert at The Arts Centre, NYU Abu Dhabi, with US trumpeter Riley Mulherkar taking the stage. Meanwhile, the Cultural Foundation Abu Dhabi will welcome Grammy Award – winning Egyptian musician Fathy Salama on May 2. He will perform with a Khaleeji drumming ensemble in a concert fusing modern jazz with regional rhythms. Tickets for the concerts are sold separately and are available online. These events mark the culmination of Abu Dhabi's official designation by Unesco as the Global Host City for International Jazz Day 2025. Announced last year, the honour places the UAE capital on a prestigious list of host cities that have included Paris, Washington DC, Istanbul and Melbourne. Unesco Director General Audrey Azoulay said: 'This edition will highlight the city's rich tapestry of creativity and cultural heritage while showcasing jazz's ability to connect communities and promote dialogue and peace across continents.' Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, chairman of the Department of Culture and Tourism Abu Dhabi, said the events also reflect the emirate's designation as a Unesco City of Music. 'Hosting International Jazz Day underlines Abu Dhabi's commitment to cultivating cultural unity, fostering peace and understanding, and celebrating established and emerging musicians and their remarkable talents,' he said. 'Jazz is a powerful tool for global connection and social harmony, and we are proud that our residents and visitors from around the world can experience the unique blend of cultural understanding, creativity and inclusivity that defines the spirit of International Jazz Day.'
