The third edition of the Montreux Jazz Festival China is scheduled to take place in Suzhou, Jiangsu province, from October 25 to 27, aiming to bridge East and West while promoting cultural exchanges between international and Chinese musicians, according to CEO Joyce Qi Peng Peng.
Founded in Switzerland in 1967 by Claude Nobs and currently directed by Mathieu Jaton, the Montreux Jazz Festival is a prestigious event that traditionally spans two weeks each summer, attracting nearly 250,000 attendees annually with its stunning setting and diverse lineup of concerts.
The festival first ventured to China in 2021, selecting the scenic UNESCO World Heritage Site of Hangzhou as its inaugural venue. This year, the theme “When West Meets East” will guide the festivities, featuring three stages and nearly 100 international artists performing in Suzhou.
“Ninety percent of the participating musicians are from abroad, while ten percent are from China,” Qi noted. “The festival will showcase a wide array of musical genres, including jazz, rock, blues, R&B, folk, indie, and electronic. Additionally, we will offer meditation and sound healing courses.”
Qi emphasized the festival’s role in fostering cultural connections between China and the global community. “The festival serves as a window to the world, allowing China to showcase itself and enabling the Chinese people to connect with global cultures.”
Over its nearly 60-year history, Montreux has hosted legendary performances from icons such as Miles Davis, Aretha Franklin, and Ella Fitzgerald, solidifying its reputation as a cornerstone of the music world.
Since the late 1970s, the festival has expanded beyond Switzerland, sharing its unique atmosphere and heritage with cities worldwide, including São Paulo, Detroit, Atlanta, Singapore, and Tokyo.
“We aim to expand to more cities in China and bring as many international musicians to China as possible while promoting Chinese artists on the global stage,” Qi stated. “China is home to many talented musicians who deserve greater recognition outside its borders, and it is our mission to introduce them to the world.”
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