It’s almost that time again. The Malta Jazz Festival is just days away and it promises to be a magical affair with some of the top musicians in the world. From fusion and Latin jazz to hard-bop, flamenco and vocal jazz, this year’s festival will be one not to miss.
The 22nd edition of the festival is to be held from Thursday 19th July to Saturday 21st of July and jazz icons with international acclaim will light up the festival with their amazing talent. Included in the festival highlights this year are several fine artists with Grammy Awards and Nominations and a great deal of respect within the industry. They will be taking to the stage on Friday 20th July.
Al di Meola
One of these artists is Al di Meola’s. He returns to the Jazz Festival to perform his powerful, energetic and captivating flamenco and tango original works on July 19th. Di Meola is a true master of his craft and those attending the Jazz Festival are in for a real treat.
Gonzalo Rubalcaba
The astoundingly brilliant pianist, Gonzalo Rubalcaba, will team up with di Meola at the festival. He has eight Grammy Nominations under his belt he is world-renowned in modern jazz circles.
Terri Lynne Carrington
Terri Lynne Carrington an extraordinary skill on the drums and has performed with some amazing artists over the years. Carrington’s recent album includes guests such as Esperanza Spalding, who entertained audiences at The Malta Jazz Festival in 2011 (and won Best New Artists Grammy Award) as well as Gretchen Parlato and Dee Dee Bridgewater.
The Tigran Hamasyan Trio
This trio draws influence from a combination of traditional Armenian folk music as well as poetic works and will add a dynamic flavor to the 2012 Malta Jazz Festival.
Will Vinson Quartet
On the 21st of July the very talented alto saxophonist, Will Vinson, and his quartet will be performing. All the way from New York City he will no doubt get feet tapping throughout the hall.
Maltese Performers
The local talent at the Malta Jazz Festival 2012 includes The Paul Giordimaina Trio, who will be opening the festival on Thursday 19h of July, as well as Carlo Muscat /Alex Bezzina.
The festival is being held at Ta’ Liesse and is a major event on the Malta cultural calendar. Jazz Festival tickets range anywhere from €20 to €40 for a 3-day pass. It’s not often you get to see this much talent alongside each other which makes the festival well worth a visit.
Citations:
- CC: All-about-Jazz
- cc: Maltaculture
Dave Peterson has travelled all around Europe and is particularly fond of island life. From relaxing tropical vacations in Mauritious to picturesque Malta holidays, it’s all about down time.