International Jazz Day

International Jazz Day History

International Jazz Day is dedicated to recognising the historical, cultural, and educational contribution of this unique genre of music. Launched under the auspices of UNESCO, this event emphasises the role of jazz as a force for freedom, creativity, and intercultural dialogue. It further highlights its diplomatic role of promoting unity among people in all corners of the world. Indeed, International Jazz Day brings together communities, musicians, educators, and enthusiasts to appreciate and celebrate the profound global influence of jazz.

The roots of International Jazz Day date back to November 2011, when UNESCO officially designated April 30 as a day to highlight jazz's diplomatic role of uniting people globally. It is celebrated in over 190 countries, with South Africa being one of them. The genre plays a distinct role in the nation's cultural landscape, often used as a tool for social dialogue and an expression of resistance during the apartheid period. Thus, International Jazz Day serves to honour heritage and foster a broader appreciation for the power of music in South Africa.

In observance of this day, South Africa hosts an array of events such as concerts, workshops, and jam sessions featuring local and international artists. The highlight of these events is the International Jazz Day Concert, where jazz lovers congregate from across the country. Jazz has a strong following in South Africa, with Cape Town notably hosting an annual Jazz Festival, recognised as Africa's Grandest Gathering. this day provides an opportunity to uphold the vibrant culture of jazz in South Africa and embrace its role in promoting social cohesion. International Jazz Day takes place annually on April 30, marking the closeness of the Jazz Appreciation Month.

Facts about International Jazz Day

• Each year a host city is chosen to celebrate International Jazz Day. In 2025, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, was chosen.
• International Jazz Day in 2021 was supposed to be hosted in Cape Town, South Africa. Instead, it was hosted virtually online due to restrictions from Covid-19.
• Nobody knows for sure where the word jazz originated. It is widely believed to come from the slang word jasm, though this is not confirmed.
• In the 1950s, another music genre called "kwela," characterized by the use of penny whistles, also influenced South African jazz.
• South Africa has a strong culture of jazz education, with tertiary institutions such as the University of Cape Town and the University of the Witwatersrand offering high-level jazz courses. International Jazz Day is often marked by student performances and recitals.

In the News and Trending in South Africa for International Jazz Day

Top things to do in South Africa for International Jazz Day

• Attend the international Jazz Day Global Concert in Washington DC. The concert features internationally renowned jazz musicians. It is also broadcasted across the US on ABC and streamed around the world by the UN and UNESCO.
• Attend Jazz in the Cradle. It is an annual music festival held in the Cradle of Humankind, near Johannesburg, featuring jazz, blues, and world music.
• Visit the Cape Town Jazz Festival. It is one of the biggest jazz festivals in South Africa and features local and international jazz artists.