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.

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.”