Kathmandu, October 11

The 13th Surya Nepal Kathmandu International Jazz Festival or Jazzmandu is begining in Kathmandu from November 4.

A press statement issued by the organisers of the event said that Jazzmandu is now an established part of the international jazz scene and among the leading music festivals in South Asia.

It said that this year’s festival is featuring visiting artists from countries, including France, the USA, Norway, Israel, Greece, Cuba and Argentina, who will join Nepali jazz and classical musicians at venues ranging from small clubs to large outdoor stages.

“Jazzmandu provides a platform in a unique setting for musicians of all creeds, colours and nationalities to come together and express their solidarity through music,” it said, adding, “It has hosted many renowned musicians over the years, including Trilok Gurtu, Louis Banks, Ari Hoenig and John Hollenbeck.”

It further said that as part of rebuilding efforts following the devastating earthquakes in Nepal on April 25, Jazzmandu will dónate all procedes from merchandise sales this year to charity.

According to the statement, Jazzmandu has helped introduce jazz into Nepal and seed a vibrant local music scene, and has also allowed international musicians to explore the power and intricacy of Nepali music.

“The festival makes music education a large part of its mission,” reads the statement, adding, “Jazz for the Next Generation, a well-established part of Jazzmandu, is a music competition allowing young musicians to showcase their talents before international musicians where the winning band joins the year’s Jazzmandu line-up on the big stage, and winning musicians get master classes with visiting artists.”

It further said that Jazzmandu also hosts a public master class every year, and this year also it was going to hold a free concert especially for children.

Jazzmandu will end on November 10.