The Belgrade Jazz Festival, Serbia’s premier jazz event, returns this October with a landmark 40th edition, promising to be an unforgettable celebration of music and milestones. Running from October 24 to 28, 2024, the festival will once again bring together world-class artists, rising talents, and a legacy of jazz excellence that spans four decades.
photo by Karolis Kaminska: Cecile McLorin Salvant
Under this year’s theme, Jazz Legacy, the festival will honor not only its own rich history but also three other significant anniversaries. The Belgrade Youth Center, the event’s long-time organizer, is celebrating its 60th anniversary, while the festival itself marks its 20th edition since its revival in 2005, and its 10th Serbian Showcase, which highlights the best of Serbia’s young jazz talent.
photo by Clay Patrick McBride: Jason Moran
This special edition will open with a grand performance by the RTS Big Band, under the direction of conductor Alan Broadbent, paying homage to jazz greats like Miles Davis and Thelonious Monk. The opening night will also feature a performance by three-time Grammy-winning vocalist Cécile McLorin Salvant, making her debut in Belgrade. For the closing night on October 28, the renowned guitarist Bill Frisell will grace the stage, followed by the Buena Vista All Stars, led by Demetrio Muñiz and featuring Ibrahim Ferrer Jr., bringing the spirit of Havana to Belgrade.
photo by Monica-Jane: Bill Frisell
Across multiple venues, including the MTS Hall and Belgrade Youth Center, the festival will present over a dozen concerts. Highlights include performances from jazz luminaries like James Carter, Jason Moran, Anat Cohen and Rudresh Mahanthappa, alongside European stars such as Gianluca Petrella and Émile Parisien. The Serbian Showcase will once again shine a spotlight on the best homegrown talent, celebrating the future of Serbian jazz.
photo by Pierre-Yves-Salique: James Carter
This exciting program promises to enchant both long-time jazz lovers and newcomers alike. As in previous years, Dinya Magazine will be the festival’s media partner, offering exclusive on-the-ground coverage of the most captivating performances, artists, and behind-the-scenes moments. See you in Belgrade!
More information and tickets for the festival.
text: Sofia Hussein for Dinya
images: courtesy of the festival