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International Jazz Day 2019: History, significance and celebrations
International Jazz Day 2019: It is a culmination of Jazz appreciation month which raises awareness about the extraordinary history and heritage of Jazz throughout the month of April.
International Jazz Day is celebrated around the world on April 30 every year to recognize jazz and its diplomatic role in uniting people. The day was designated in the year 2011 by UNESCO and is currently chaired by Director General Audrey Azoulay and legendary jazz pianist and composer Herbie Hancock, who serves as a UNESCO Ambassador for Intercultural Dialogue and Chairman of the Herbie Hancock Institute of Jazz. International Jazz Day is a culmination of Jazz appreciation month which raises awareness about the extraordinary history and heritage of Jazz throughout the month of April.
Significance
Jazz day is observed to bring together communities, artists, schools, academics, historians and jazz enthusiasts all over the world to celebrate jazz, its roots, history and future and most importantly how it brings people together. It also aims at raising awareness about the importance of intercultural dialogue and mutual understanding. On April 30 each year, this art form is recognised for promoting dialogue among cultures, diversity, and respect for human rights, eradicating discrimination and gender bias and most importantly promoting peace. International Jazz Day also aims at highlighting the role of youth in enacting social change across the globe.
Celebrations
The program for 2019 as announced by UNESCO Director-General Audrey Azoulay, and UNESCO Goodwill Ambassador Herbie Hancock will be launched in Australia and will be celebrated across more than 190 countries. On April 29 and 30, a wide range of jazz performances, education programmes and community service initiatives will be presented in partnership with the Melbourne Conservatorium, University of Melbourne, featuring more than a dozen celebrated jazz masters. The events will finally end in an All-Star Global Concert at the Melbourne Arts Centre’s renowned Hamer Hall and will be available on Youtube and Facebook for viewing.
