The 18th Edition of the Monte Carlo Jazz Festival: A Fusion of International Jazz and Cinema

This November, the iconic Opera Garnier will once again host one of Monaco's most anticipated cultural events: the 18th edition of the Monte Carlo Jazz Festival, taking place from November 21st to December 1st. Renowned for its ability to blend the traditional with the avant-garde, this year's festival promises a vibrant mix of jazz, cinema, and global sounds. A dazzling lineup of international artists is set to bring their jazzy notes to the Principality, offering unforgettable performances in one of the world's most elegant venues.

A Tribute to Chick Corea and Stellar Performances

The festival kicks off on November 21st with the Dal Basso Big Band, paying homage to the legendary jazz pianist and composer Chick Corea, whose influence continues to reverberate throughout the jazz world. This opening night will set a high bar for what is to come, blending the big band sound with Corea's pioneering jazz fusion.

On November 22nd, jazz enthusiasts will be treated to a double bill featuring Dee Dee Bridgewater, a Grammy Award-winning jazz singer with a career that spans over four decades, alongside renowned Italian saxophonist Stefano di Battista. Bridgewater's soulful voice and Battista's brilliant improvisations are sure to create a magical evening.

A Journey Through Global Voices

For those seeking a more intimate and soulful experience, the festival will take the audience on a sensual journeythrough the voices of two remarkable singers: Ayo, whose music blends folk, soul, and reggae, and Mayra Andrade, the Cape Verdean artist known for her fusion of traditional island music with jazz and Afrobeat. Their performances will offer a powerful blend of emotion, rhythm, and vocal mastery, transporting listeners across genres and continents.

Jazz Meets Cinema

Cinema and jazz have long shared a special relationship, and this year's Monte Carlo Jazz Festival celebrates that connection with two standout film events. Louis Malle's "Ascenseur pour l'échafaud", a masterpiece of French cinema, will be screened alongside its iconic, improvisational jazz score composed by Miles Davis. Additionally, jazz lovers and film buffs alike can look forward to a film-concert of "Whiplash", directed by Damien Chazelle. The electrifying 2014 film, known for its intense portrayal of a young drummer's quest for greatness, will be accompanied by a live jazz performance, adding an immersive musical experience to the already gripping narrative.

Funk, Afrobeat, and Cuban Rhythms

The festival continues to expand the boundaries of jazz by showcasing a diverse range of styles. On November 27th, the British pop-funk sensation Level 42 will take the stage, blending their upbeat rhythms with the smooth sounds of jazz. They will be joined by Emile Londonien, a 100% London jazz trio known for their inventive approach to contemporary jazz.

The festival also offers a taste of the vibrant rhythms of the Caribbean and Africa with the pulsating Cuban grooves of Cinemafunk and the energetic Afrobeat of Seun Kuti, the son of the legendary Fela Kuti. Both acts promise to infuse the Opera Garnier with an irresistible mix of danceable beats and jazz-inspired improvisations.

Unique Collaborations and Rising Stars

As the festival nears its grand finale, audiences can look forward to a highly anticipated collaboration between M(Matthieu Chedid), one of France's most celebrated pop-rock artists, and classical guitar virtuoso Thibault Cauvin. Their instrumental encounter, enhanced by the ethereal strings of harpist and singer Sophye Soliveau, promises a spellbinding fusion of genres, weaving together jazz, rock, and classical elements in a truly unique performance.
Emerging artists are also set to shine at this year's festival. TikTok sensation Stella Cole, whose charismatic voice has won her a large following online, will perform alongside the celebrated Mario Biondi, a crooner with a deep, velvety voice reminiscent of the great soul singers. Together, they will provide a fresh and contemporary take on jazz, bridging the gap between tradition and innovation.
Before and After Sessions at the Casino Monte-Carlo

The festival experience will extend beyond the Opera Garnier, with Before and After sessions held in the stunning rotunda of the Casino Monte-Carlo. These sessions will provide a more intimate setting for festival-goers to enjoy live jazz, offering a relaxed yet sophisticated atmosphere to socialize and soak in the music. The special setup in this iconic location will further enhance the festival's ambiance, making it an unmissable part of Monaco's cultural calendar.

A Celebration of Jazz's Timeless Appeal

The Monte Carlo Jazz Festival continues to honor jazz's rich history while pushing the boundaries of the genre, creating a platform for both seasoned legends and rising stars to shine. Whether through the timeless tributes to Chick Corea, the enchanting voices of Ayo and Mayra Andrade, or the fusion of jazz with cinema and global rhythms, this year's festival offers something for everyone.

With its world-class performances, diverse lineup, and unique mix of music and film, the 18th edition of the Monte Carlo Jazz Festival promises to be a remarkable celebration of jazz's enduring appeal. As always, it will turn the Principality of Monaco into a haven for music lovers, blending elegance, creativity, and the universal language of jazz.