Jazz Workshop and Jam Session 2018 took place in Nicosia

The European Commission, as part of the European Music Nights, supported a Jazz Workshop and Jam Session in collaboration with Jazz Education Abroad on 6 July in Nicosia. The workshop brought together all age groups and participants at all levels and all musical instruments at Ledra Art Music and Fine Arts Studio. After the opening speech by Ms.Kezban Akansoy, almost 30 participants took part in parallel workshops for different instruments with jazz masters Dr. Gene Aitken (Music Education & Director), Paolo Orlandi (Drums), Cahit Kutrafalı & Damian Erskine (Bass), Mike Dana (Guitar), Jeremy Siskind (Piano), Rob Thomas (Violin), Dave Glenn (Trombone), Dr. J Kyle Gregory (Trumpet), Mariano Abello (Saxophone), Jimmy Lee (Flute and Clarinet), and Julie Rey Dana (Vocals). After the workshop, a jam session was held between 20:30 and 22:00, where the jazz masters gave a jazz concert. The jazz jam session brought together more than 50 jazz lovers at the Lefkoşa HASDER garden.

Music is one of the most popular forms of art, widely consumed, and a vibrant expression of Europe's cultural diversity. Strengthening this sector contributes to the promotion of cultural diversity and intercultural dialogue, culture as a catalyst for creativity. In its efforts to promote further creativity, diversity and innovation in Europe's music sector, the Commission works with all concerned stakeholders. As part of the EU Aid Programme for the Turkish Cypriot community a series of activities and projects to raise awareness about arts, music and cultural heritage were supported.