The city in a state of jazz
Jazz was born in a city nestled on one of the gentle crescent-shaped bends in the Mississippi River... The word on the streets became jazz. Intense emotions of rage, sadness, hope, and love found a voice through jazz... Although jazz adopted new characteristics as it visited other cities and countries, its foundation remained true to itself. Jazz grew and developed and became one of the richest varieties of music, but its roots remained firmly embedded in the city... It remained true to itself and became a strong voice echoing the feelings and emotions of the streets of the city it was in.
Jazz is inspired by every city...However, when the city in question is Istanbul then a more intense inspiration is in question. Istanbul... Although hundreds of kilometres separate Istanbul from the birthplace of jazz, it is also a city through which water flows... This city- romanticised, calmed, stirred by water- grows in waves and has a different relationship to jazz. The city seems familiar and is reminiscent of the homeland and a soul bursting with love. What a joy that this love affair is mutual.
Just as the city influences jazz, jazz influences the city. It relates something new and provides different perspectives to similar emotions, or it can leave you on your own or make you mingle with crowds. Regardless of everything, it is natural to view things differently when you are overflowing with jazz. Many things that you observe or feel may no longer seem the same.
Istanbul undergoes change with the arrival of jazz...
Just as in previous years, at the forefront of this great change, the Akbank 18th International Jazz Festival is delighted to be welcoming both the masters and new artists of jazz to the city where they will encounter jazz enthusiasts at magical venues.
Hoping that you become part of the change, we wish you many days filled with jazz...