Ordinarily, when I describe a music festival I would use phrases like “the streets were rocking” or “people were jamming.” But, when describing Copenhagen’s Jazz Festival it seems more appropriate to use descriptions like: “It’s a place where music as sweet as honey flows through the streets.” Or, “Toes tapped, fingers snapped and hips swayed.” So, which is the best description? You can find out by experiencing the festival yourself.
The Copenhagen Jazz Festival is considered one of northern Europe’s main jazz events. The festival kicks off each year in the capital of Denmark on the first Friday in July. The event features more than 600 performances by artists from all over the world and runs for 10 consecutive days. Many performances take place in the city’s most historic streets and squares and along the banks of the canals. In addition, Copenhagen’s clubs and cafes join in the festivities by hosting a variety of artists whose styles range from traditional New Orleans jazz and swing to more contemporary, experimental styles.
For example, this year the festival includes performances by Dianne Reeves and Herbie Hancock, Trio Beyond, Pat Metheny, Chris Potter and Brad Mehldau, as well as hundreds of lesser-known artists. In addition, this year’s festival, which marks the city’s 28th year hosting the event, will feature homegrown talents – from legendary 90-year-old violinist Svend Asmussen to pianist Carsten Dahl and trumpeter Palle Mikkelborg.
When you are visiting Copenhagen during the festival it’s hard to escape the swinging sounds that seem to pour into every venue that covers the capital city. From city squares to little cafes, the lawn of Rosenberg Castle to hotels and plazas, the music flows like a fine wine. Giant Jazz, one of the main events of the festival, is held in the Old Circus Building close to center of the city. You can also catch performances while you stroll through the world-renown Tivoli Gardens. This year the stunning gardens will serve as a backdrop to a live performance from 1960s and 1970s Brazilian legend Sergio Mendes.
The festival is not only popular (it attracts more than 100,000 visitors each year), but it is also family-friendly. In addition to the variety of internationally acclaimed musicians, the festival also features street performers and children’s music workshops.
For more information on the Copenhagen Jazz Festival click here.