International Jazz Day 2024 at +233 Ghana
International Jazz Day 2024 came alive with an electrifying celebration at the +233 Jazz Bar & Grill in Accra, Ghana, captivating the hearts of music aficionados on Tuesday, April 30. The atmosphere was charged with excitement as patrons reveled in the soulful melodies and infectious rhythms, a testament to the enduring charm of jazz.
Headlining the event were acclaimed American musicians, trumpeter Bruce Harris and vocalist Jackie Ribas, supported by the talented GHJazz Collective. The collaboration between +233 Jazz Bar & Grill and the Ghana Jazz Foundation underscored a commitment to fostering excellence within Ghana’s jazz community, uniting diverse stakeholders in a shared passion for the genre.
Before the first note resonated through the venue, Madam Korkor Amarteifio, a Director of the Ghana Jazz Foundation, articulated the collective vision of pushing boundaries and striving for excellence in jazz. Her words set the stage for an evening of musical brilliance and cultural exchange.
The performance commenced with an exhilarating rendition of ‘Bachinsky’, an uptempo instrumental masterpiece, flawlessly executed by the GHJazz Collective and Bruce Harris. The synergy between the musicians electrified the audience, transporting them on a musical journey of improvisation and innovation.
Highlighting the fusion of jazz with Ghanaian influences, the ensemble mesmerized the crowd with ‘Ghana’, a vibrant composition blending jazz, highlife, Afrobeat, and Latin rhythms. Bassist Gaddiel Amoah anchored the ensemble with precision, while percussionist Nii Barnor showcased his virtuosity, earning thunderous applause from the audience.
Jackie Ribas graced the stage with her enchanting presence, delivering soul-stirring performances of classics such as ‘I Just Called To Say I Love You’ and ‘Sweet Thing’. Her nuanced interpretations breathed new life into familiar tunes, captivating listeners with her emotive delivery and distinctive style.
Bruce Harris’s gesture of passing on his cornet to young trumpeter Elvis Obese symbolized a passing of the torch, a commitment to nurturing the next generation of jazz musicians. It exemplified the spirit of mentorship and camaraderie that defines the jazz community, ensuring the continuity of the art form for generations to come.
As the evening unfolded, guests were treated to an array of delectable cocktails and culinary delights, enhancing the overall experience of the event. The +233 Jazz Bar & Grill was filled to capacity with discerning music lovers, united in their appreciation for the timeless allure of jazz.
In conclusion, the International Jazz Day 2024 concert at +233 Jazz Bar & Grill was a resounding success, a celebration of musical diversity and cultural exchange. It underscored the transformative power of jazz to unite hearts and minds, transcending boundaries and inspiring creativity.
