France is set to celebrate its rich jazz heritage and upcoming concerts with a series of significant events that promise to captivate jazz enthusiasts across the country. This surge of musical activities coinciding with azoning French jazz scene, bringing both historic underpinnings and exciting future performances to the forefront. Stay tuned as the nation honors its jazz legacy and looks forward to an incredible summer season.
LE Jazz in France Under the Occupation: A Historical Journey
The upcoming unique series: LE Jazz in France under the occupation (1940-1945) by Florian Royer, realized by Sophie Pichon, begins on Saturday, July 5, available online on the France site and radio app. This series explores an often-overlooked period when jazz flourished in France despite the occupation. Contrary to Nazi values, jazz was never prohibited, and legendary figures like Django Reinhardt performed with the Hot Club de France.
Pioneering Musicians of Jazz in France
Prominent musicians such as Boris Vian, Claude Abadie, Claude Luter, Félix Valvert, and Sylvio Siobud emerged during this era. Jazz infiltrated stages and airwaves, influencing the cultural landscape with the emerging fashion of the zazous in Paris. This fascinating historical context will surely resonate with enthusiasts keen on understanding the resilience of jazz through challenging times.
Jazz in Montpellier: Enjoy Live Performances from July 16
Stream a special evening with Nicolas Pommaret at the Radio Festival France Occitanie in Montpellier on July 16 at 8 p.m. The pianist Brad Mehldau will open the summer season of jazz concerts on France Musique. Subsequent performances include Yaron Herman and Michel Benita on July 20 and Besson Area and Arnaud Dolmen on August 10. Notable artists like Joe Lovano, Marcin Wasilewski, Arthur Teboul, and Jean-Baptiste Trotignon will take the stage on August 17.
The concert of Jeanne Added, recorded in Montpellier, will be broadcast in the Jazz Club from Nathalie Piole at the start of the school year. This addition to the-evergreen programming underscores the ongoing commitment to celebrating both emerging and established talent in the jazz community.
Jazz in Marciac: Note-Worthy Performances from July 28
Join Nathalie Piole and Nicolas Pommaret at the renowned festival Jazz in Marciac starting July 28. The lineup features Marc Copland, Christian Sands, Wynton Marsalis & Friends, and an Oscar Peterson Centennial Celebration. These concerts promise to be highlights of the jazz calendar, showcasing some of the world’s finest jazz talent.
Additional Highlights: Programming from Nathalie Piole and Jerome Badi
Banzzai, hosted by Nathalie Piole, will be available Monday to Friday from 10:30 p.m. to 11:30 p.m. Meanwhile, Jazz legends, curated by Jerome Badi, will air in various cities like Marciac, Cimiez, Châteauvallon, Juan-les-Pins, and Vienne on Saturdays and Sundays from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. Iconic performers such as Sonny Rollins, Joe Williams, Ella Fitzgerald, Duke Ellington, Al Jarreau, Charles Mingus, Toots Thielemans, and Ben Sidran will be featured, ensuring evergreen value for jazz lovers.
France’s jazz scene is poised for an exciting summer of both historical reflection and contemporary celebration. From historic performances and riveting live concerts to national broadcasts and festivals, these events are set to the rich jazz tapestry that continues to thrive in France.
