The event's lineup, announced today by UNESCO and the Herbie Hancock Institute of Jazz, includes musicians Gregory Porter (United States of America), James Morrison (Australia), Tiger Okoshi (Japan), Mandisi Dyantyis (South Africa), Antonio Sánchez (Mexico), Mino Cinélu (Martinique, France) and many more.
Each year on 30 April, this global observance reminds us that jazz is a universal language that transcends borders, generations, and cultures. It invites us to listen deeply, respect each voice, and create together in harmony.
Khaled El-EnanyUNESCO Director-General
I am thrilled to celebrate unity through music on the 15th anniversary of International Jazz Day. What we have created together with UNESCO is truly extraordinary. Bringing this global celebration to Chicago-the city where I was born and first discovered the magic of jazz-makes this moment especially meaningful, as audiences in more than 190 countries come together.
Herbie HancockUNESCO Goodwill Ambassador for Intercultural Dialogue
Honoring the city's illustrious jazz heritage-where legends such as Louis Armstrong, King Oliver and Jelly Roll Morton shaped the evolution of the music-Chicago is hosting a series of performances, educational programmes and community initiatives until 3 May. These initiatives are designed to showcase jazz's enduring ability, throughout history and today, to inspire a shared sense of humanity through culture.
Programme highlights
Highlights of the Chicago programme include a performance by the Chicago Jazz Orchestra at Unity Temple on 28 April, the UNESCO World Heritage-listed architectural landmark designed by Frank Lloyd Wright. The programme will feature Usonian Structures, composed by saxophonist and arranger Andy Farber-the work is inspired by Wright's organic and functional design philosophy.
A special screening of Birdman
