Music has throughout the ages proved to be a powerful vehicle for communication. When it springs from the fusion of the music of different cultures and creates a harmonious expression that speaks to many different cultures, the rapprochement is complete. Jazz exemplifies this process. Jazz is a unique style of music which originated in the southern United States but has its roots in Africa and merges both African and European music traditions. Jazz has become an international art form, evolving as it travels across the globe, borrowing the best from other nations and regions to enrich it. Defying definition, jazz speaks many languages and has become a unifying force for its adherents regardless of race, religion, ethnic or national origin. The 100th United States Congress designated jazz as “a rare and valuable national American treasure”,2 but today it belongs to the world.
It is against this background that the sponsors are requesting the inscription of an item on the agenda of the 187th session of the Executive Board entitled “Proclamation of an International Jazz Day.” The designation of 30 April each year as the “International Jazz Day” would unite communities, schools and other groups all over the world to celebrate and learn more about the art of jazz and how it has become part of their culture. Celebrations could be organized at UNESCO Headquarters, field offices and non-governmental organizations and other institutions. UNESCO National Commissions could play an important role in promoting International Jazz Day and what it represents – a means of communication that transcends differences.
“International Jazz Day” would be a cross-sectoral project which would engage the expertise of the Culture, Education and Communications/Information sectors. It would also be a Day for all ages since jazz knows no generation gap. Outreach to youth would be an important component. “Jazz in the Classroom” programmes have already been successful in helping students in the inner-city and rural areas to develop creativity, a positive self-image and appreciation for their own and others’ cultural heritage. Herbie Hancock, a jazz legend who was recently named as UNESCO Goodwill Ambassador for the Promotion of Intercultural Dialogue, has been featured in an interactive satellite television for music education programme as part of “Jazz in the Classroom”.
30 April of each year would be dedicated to highlighting the joy that jazz can bring as a unifying force. Jazz, as a tool for rapprochement, works. An example is “Massar Egbari”, a group of young Egyptians recognized by UNESCO for promoting dialogue between Arab and Western countries. These young musicians mix rock, jazz and blues with oriental music. The group launched the “music as a means of intercultural dialogue” project, inviting Western artists to share the stage in concerts.
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