17th International Istanbul Jazz Festival
The 17th International Istanbul Jazz Festival kicks off July 1 with a major concert for jazz lovers. The festival will continue through July 20 as Istanbul hosts world-known musicians and groups such as Grace Jones, Seal, Buika and Lisa Ekdahl.
Those who love jazz will enjoy a concert that promises cool breezes from the Bosphorus and a memorable start to a splendid festival.
Lisa Ekdahl’s music was the hottest thing in Istanbul, playing her first concert in Turkey for the 17th International Istanbul Jazz Festival on Tuesday, the Swedish singer lit up the stage at the Marmara Hotel Esma Sultan.
One of the most famous pianists and composers of cotemporary jazz music, Chick Corea and his Freedom Band, will be on stage on July 7 for the first open-air concert at the Cemil Topuzlu Open Air Theatre.
The 16-time Grammy award-winning artist will be accompanied by Kenny Garrett, considered one of jazz’s most competent saxophonists. Legendary crooner Tony Bennet will also perform at the Open Air Theatre on July 15, with a support performance by the Kerem Görsev Trio.
Grace Jones is another of the international superstars performing at the Open Air Theatre. Renowned for her striking voice, arresting shows, Jones is a modern legend with a career spanning musical styles from disco to rock and will play in Istanbul for the first time ever. Uncompromising in her image and her dashing attitude, Jones will perform July 16.
One of the most powerful voices of contemporary music, known for his renditions of popular hits, Seal will also play the Open Air Theatre July 19. Seal proved to be one of the most powerful voices in modern R&B with his latest album “Soul.”
During the festival there will be also street concerts all over Istanbul with the support of the U.S. Consulate. This year the Panorama Jazz Band from New Orleans will be among the acts singing in the streets of the city.
Tickets for the festival are available at Biletix.
Organizers are also releasing a special Istanbul Jazz Festival CD featuring works by artists performing at the festival.
More info at www.iksv.org
