Date
Wednesday
Apr
30

April 30

International Jazz Day

Come join the party on International Jazz Day and let loose to some smooth tunes!

Yearly Date
April 30
Type
Day

Introduction

Put on your dancing shoes and get ready to celebrate International Jazz Day on April 30! This day is dedicated to celebrating the vibrant history and culture of jazz music, which has been around for over a century. Jazz music has had a major influence on many genres of music, from rock and pop to hip-hop and funk. It's also a great way to bring people together from all walks of life through its infectious energy and soulful sounds. So let's come together this April 30th to enjoy some amazing live jazz music – it's sure to be an unforgettable experience!

International Jazz Day Timeline

1917
First Jazz Recording
"Livery Stable Blues" by the Original Dixieland Jass Band, becomes the first jazz recording to ever be released, popularizing the genre.
1930s
Swing Era
The Swing era popularizes jazz on a massive scale, turning it into a dominant form of popular music, and introducing improvisation to the mix.
1940s
BeBop Emergence
The BeBop subgenre emerges in the 1940s, led by jazz greats like Charlie Parker and Dizzy Gillespie, as a reaction to the commercialized swing music.
1959
"Kind of Blue" Album Released
Miles Davis releases "Kind of Blue", widely regarded as one of the greatest and most influential jazz albums of all time.
1987
First Jazz Master Award
The NEA Jazz Masters award is established by the National Endowment for the Arts, becoming the highest honor for living jazz musicians in the United States.
2011
International Jazz Day Established
UNESCO officially designates April 30 as International Jazz Day to highlight jazz's role in fostering freedom, creativity and intercultural dialogue, among others.

How to Celebrate International Jazz Day

1

Listen to Jazz Music

Put on some of your favorite jazz records or search for jazz music on streaming services. Make sure to really listen to the music and appreciate its nuances.

2

Visit a Jazz Venue

See if there are any local jazz venues near you. Enjoy the atmosphere and let the music take you away.

3

Throw a Jazz Party

Invite your friends over for some drinks, food, and smooth jazz. Have everyone dress in their best 1920s attire.

4

Learn About Jazz History

Take some time to explore the history of jazz music. Learn about the influences and styles that have shaped Jazz over the years.

5

Attend a Jazz Festival

Find out if there are any upcoming Jazz festivals or events near you and make plans with friends to attend. It’s a great way to experience jazz with others.

Why International Jazz Day is Important

A

International Jazz Day celebrates jazz music

International Jazz Day, which is celebrated each year on April 30th, honors the rich history and contributions of jazz music from around the world. It's a day to celebrate all forms of this diverse art form - from blues and funk to swing and bebop - that have impacted generations of musicians!

B

International Jazz Day encourages cultural exchange

Jazz has been a powerful force in creating bridges between cultures for decades. Whether it's through live performances or recorded albums, many people are exposed to different cultures through the power of jazz music. International Jazz Day provides an opportunity to share ideas and experiences across borders with likeminded individuals who appreciate this timeless art form.

C

International Jazz Day promotes diversity

In addition to its ability to promote intercultural exchange, jazz also encourages acceptance of differences among people. Jazz is known for having no boundaries or limits when it comes to musical expression, drawing inspiration from multiple genres and cultures to create something unique and individual. Celebrating International Jazz Day helps celebrate this rich diversity that can be found in every corner of the globe.

International Jazz Day Dates

Year
Date
Day
2023
Apr 29
Saturday
2024
Apr 29
Monday
2025
Apr 29
Tuesday
2026
Apr 29
Wednesday
2027
Apr 29
Thursday