Jazzing up the west

If Take 6, Dee Dee Bridgewater, Jacob Collier, Dhafer Youssef, BadBadNotGood and Imany ring a bell, then you probably know a thing or two about jazz. These artists, among others, will go on stage in Timisoara, western Romania, for the exciting fourth run of JazzTM.

Oana Vasiliu

From July 1-3, 21 artists and bands will appear on three stages, in Timisoara’s Victoriei Square, Civic Park and Castle Park.

“JazzTM’s concept is a pretty simple one: the line-up must be appealing both to people that know and appreciate jazz and to people that don’t listen to this kind of music every day. The educational part is important for the organizers, especially because it’s an event with free access. Music is for everyone. Also, it’s an important stage for Romanian jazz bands and the festival’s audience can enjoy some of the country’s great talents, together with exceptional artists from all over the world. Romania is creative in jazz music too and this is a statement that JazzTM is making, by inviting young talented musicians to perform,” says Norbert Tako, the festival’s artistic director, of what makes JazzTM stand out.

This year, the event is moving to another two locations, namely the Civic Park and Castle Park. “Jazz is about being relaxed and enjoying the moment, so the decision to widen the area of stages is based on the idea of offering a good place to relax and enjoy the sounds of jazz,” says Tako.

“On a more specific note, Jacob Collier – the boy wonder discovered by Quincy Jones – is an artist that nobody should miss. His ability to play multiple instruments and his beautiful voice are just two of the reasons for his show to be an outstanding one. Also, Take 6, the vocal jazz (a capella) group, will be the most awarded group/artist that have ever performed on JazzTM’s stage.”

Romanian jazz singers will also have their place on the stage. Asked by BR if the organizers have noticed any changes to the local jazz scene since the beginning of the festival, Tako replies, “We sure have. Jazz musicians from Timisoara – who performed in earlier editions – are now among the newer bands across the country. Backstage at the festival artists got to know each other and we have noticed some great collaborations between them. This year, with no fewer than 13 Romanian jazz bands, the local scene will grow even more.” Romanian artists that will be performing include Petra Acker, A-C Leonte x Tavi Scurtu, Van Jam, Jazzybirds, Luiza Zan, The Twisters, Theatre Fleas Orchestra, Spanache x Pop, Brum and Paperjam.