The opening ceremony of the 21st Baku Jazz Festival has been held at the Elektra Events Hall. The festival runs from October 3 to 11 and brings together performers from more than 12 countries at a single venue.
On the festival’s opening night, founder and saxophonist Rain Sultanov performed together with the Gara Garayev State Chamber Orchestra. Pianist Isfar Sarabski then took the stage, with France’s FR33 ROOTS collective appearing as guest performers.
The same day also saw the launch of a new internet radio station dedicated to local jazz music, which went on air a short time ago.
Speaking to reporters, Rain Sultanov reflected on the festival’s 21-year journey, saying he was proud of having maintained relationships with the artists he has worked with over the years. He added that everything that has happened during this time amounts to an experience rich enough to fill several volumes, not just one book.
Over the course of the nine-day program, the capital and its surrounding venues will host a range of concerts, film screenings and improvised jam sessions. The festival’s final two days will be held outdoors in the historic Icherisheher district, near the Maiden Tower, with free admission for all who wish to attend.
