2022.10.07
Hamamatsu Jazz Week
Do you like jazz? When you hear the word “jazz”, cool performances of trumpets, pianos, and other instruments may come to mind. Whilst jazz may have a slightly mature image, people of all ages can enjoy the smooth stylings of jazz at “Hamamatsu Jazz Week”.
The event started in 1992 as one of the city’s music development projects. Residents have long loved this unique local cultural event, which is planned through collaboration between the local government and citizens with the aim of “making a city where music is everywhere and creates the city.” This year marks the 30th anniversary of this festival that has not only been a hit with locals, but also amongst visitors to Hamamatsu.
This year Hamamatsu Jazz Week will take place from October 15 until October 23, and will open with the “Student’s Jazz Festival,” featuring outstanding junior and high school jazz orchestras selected from all over Japan. During the festival, jazz music will fill the city streets – with residents able to enjoy concerts being held in squares, restaurants, and other venues throughout the city.
There are many other enjoyable events for people of all ages, such as concerts for small children and families, performances from professional jazz musicians at local elementary and junior high schools, and collaborations between jazz singers and rakugo artists. The “Yamaha Jazz Festival” will close the festivities, bringing together some of Japan’s top artists. With a diverse line up including: promising musicians, passionate performances from popular artists, and veteran musicians passing on the tradition of jazz to the next generation – this final stage is sure to be a grand event.
The charm of Hamamatsu Jazz Week is its expression of the popularity, artistry, and diversity of jazz – so why not come and enjoy it yourself when the pandemic travel restrictions are lifted?
Link to Hamamatsu Jazz Week (Japanese only):https://hamamatsujazzweek.com/
