International Jazz Festival
The International Jazz Festival of La Spezia is the longest-running Italian music festival dedicated to jazz. It takes place in La Spezia every summer without interruption since 1969. The idea for the festival originated from Tiberio Nicola and other enthusiasts who, in 1968, founded the association Friends of Jazz in La Spezia.
The first La Spezia Jazz Festival took place on July 18, 1969. That evening featured performances by Bill Evans trio (with Eddie Gomez and Marty Morell), the quartet of American saxophonist Lucky Thompson, and a big band led by Canadian trumpeter Maynard Ferguson. Over the course of 55 editions, both local musicians and international caliber artists like The Manhattan Transfer, Earth, Wind and Fire, Dee Dee Bridgewater, etc., have been featured.
Since the 53rd edition, artistic direction has been entrusted to Maestro Lorenzo Cimino.
Events:
- 24th July 2024: Goran Bregović and The Wedding & Funeral Band
- 25th July 2024: Mike Stern / Randy Brecker Band
- 27th July 2024: Irene Grandi
- 28th July 2024: 'Kind of Bill' – Tribute to Bill Evans
- 29th July 2024: Paolo Fresu & Uri Caine
- 30th July 2024: Russell Crowe & The Gentlemen Barbers
Tickets for the 56th edition of the International Jazz Festival of La Spezia can be purchased online at Vivaticket.com or at the Box Office of the Civic Theater.
Opening hours of the Civic Theater Box Office: Civic Theater Box Office (entrance from via Carpenino) from Monday to Saturday from 8:30 am to 12 pm – on Wednesday also from 4 pm to 7 pm.