An event that connects cultures
Jazz and Am has established itself as an essential event for jazz music, attracting a varied audience of producers, musicians and journalists from all over. In this edition, the Taller de Músics opted for a new scenario: El Molino, a coffee-theater that has become a meeting point for national and international renowned artists.
Dialogues on musical diversity
One of the highlights was the forum organized by the Catalan Academy of Music, entitled ‘Music and Plurality’. Here, drummer Marc Ayza presented his vision on the importance of diversity in music, differentiating between ‘plurality’ and ‘diversity’. Ayza stated that ‘diversity would be magnificent if it did not make differences’, emphasizing the importance of inclusive dialogue.
Racism and music: a theme present
During the round tables, artists such as Anggie Obin and Simbiat Ebhom addressed the problem of racism in the world of jazz, a topic that is often overlooked. His intervention showed that black music, far from being just a genre, represents a fight against exclusion and marginalization.
Music as a transformation tool
Another of the highlight was the table on ‘Black Music, Black Culture and Free Jazz’, where Professor Mariano Peyrou and journalist Kevin Le Gendre shared their perspectives on the influence of black music on contemporary culture. His discussion deepened how Free Jazz has challenged conventions and opened new avenues of artistic expression.
The free jazz as a cultural revolution
In this context, they mentioned key figures such as Archie Shepp and Ornette Coleman, who have been pioneers in the creation of a space for black music. The conversation emphasized the importance of this movement, not only musically, but also in response to the social and political struggles of the time.
A showcase of emerging talents
The festival also offered a platform for emerging talents, with performances by groups such as Carola Ortiz Duo and Clara Lai Trio. These artists showed the diversity of sounds and styles that characterize the current jazz scene, with an approach to innovation and creativity.
International collaborations
In addition, the project was presented and Am Abroad, which seeks to unite musicians from various European cities, strengthening the idea of community and collaboration between artists from different cultures and styles. This initiative reflects the goal of jazz and am of being a bridge between different musical scenes.
Final reflections and future perspectives
Although Jazz and Am has positioned itself as a benchmark in the world of jazz, it is essential that events like this are accessible to a wider audience. The idea of opening round tables and citizenship performances can help enrich musical culture and foster inclusion. With a promising future, jazz and am can continue to be a engine of change and an expression space for all voices.
