This year marks its 40th anniversary, a milestone that speaks of the relevance and importance of this event in the music scene of the country and the world. In this article, we will review the history of the Zaragoza Jazz Festival, as well as some of the most outstanding figures who have played on its stages.
Origins of the Zaragoza Jazz Festival
The Zaragoza Jazz Festival was created by a group of musicians and jazz fans who wanted to promote musical culture in the city. The aim was to create an event that would offer a quality program, with national and international artists that could show the richness and diversity of the genre.
The first edition of the festival was held in 1986, within the framework of the Zaragoza Trade Fair. The event was a resounding success, with the participation of artists such as saxophonist Lou Donaldson and pianist Tete Montoliu. Since then, the Zaragoza Jazz Festival has been held every year, except in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Throughout its 40-year history, the festival has evolved and adapted to the times, but has always maintained its commitment to quality and musical excellence. Since its first editions, the festival has enjoyed the support of the city of Zaragoza and its cultural institutions, which have contributed to consolidate its position as one of the most important cultural events in Spain.
Great figures who have performed at the Zaragoza Jazz Festival
The Zaragoza Jazz Festival has hosted some of the most outstanding figures of the genre. Throughout its 40-year history, the festival has been the stage for some of the most memorable concerts in jazz music, with the participation of national and international artists of the stature of:
- Chick Corea
- Herbie Hancock
- Wynton Marsalis
- Pat Metheny
- Diana Krall
- Wayne Shorter
- Esperanza Spalding
- Paco de Lucia
- Dave Holland
- Dee Dee Bridgewater
- Joshua Redman
- Cassandra Wilson
- Kurt Elling
- Stanley Clark
- John McLaughlin
- Brad Mehldau
- Gonzalo Rubalcaba
- Roy Hargrove
- Charles Lloyd
- Bobby McFerrin
These artists have given some of the most memorable performances in the history of the Zaragoza Jazz Festival, with a dedicated audience and a unique atmosphere. Their presence at the festival has been a unique opportunity for jazz fans from all over the world to enjoy their performances in an unparalleled setting.
