Roma Jazz Festival
The 2024 Roma Jazz Festival revolves around the concept of "Hybrid," reflecting the global and technological evolution of jazz. From November 1 to 23, the festival will feature 23 concerts in iconic venues such as the Auditorium Parco della Musica, Casa del Jazz, and Monk. The lineup ranges from international stars like Pat Metheny and Lakecia Benjamin to emerging talents and new trends in the global jazz scene. The program places strong emphasis on geographical and stylistic crossovers, showcasing artists from around the world and focusing on themes like inclusivity and innovation, while also offering educational initiatives and events for children.
Via IG @romajazzfestival © All rights belong to their respective owners. No copyright infringement intended.
As it approaches its 50th anniversary, the Roma Jazz Festival once again proves to be one of the most vibrant and dynamic events on the international stage, constantly exploring the endless evolution of a genre that today knows no boundaries. We had the chance to speak with Artistic Director Mario Ciampà to gain insight into his perspective on the evolution of jazz in an increasingly interconnected world and to discover what new languages and narratives he believes will emerge from these global interactions.
“In recent years, contemporary jazz has embarked on a fascinating journey, marked by continuous evolution and vibrant interaction with other musical forms. This genre, inherently hybrid by nature, is now embracing a wide range of influences, leading to a fusion of styles that enriches its identity. The trend toward hybridization is unmistakable, with artists like Kamasi Washington and Robert Glasper pushing the boundaries of traditional jazz. Rather than staying rooted in the genre’s origins, they incorporate elements of rock, electronic music, and even classical. Their music becomes a melting pot of sounds and styles, reflecting the complexity of the modern world. Similarly, figures like Esperanza Spalding and Gregory Porter are reinventing jazz by blending it with hip-hop, R&B, and pop. This fusion creates new sonic landscapes—a musical dialogue that resonates with different generations, making jazz both accessible and relevant to contemporary times. Adding to this dynamic scene is the growing use of electronics. Musicians such as The Cinematic Orchestra, Nils Petter Molvær, Louis Cole, and Takuya Kuroda are exploring the interplay between acoustic and synthetic sounds. These bold sonic experiments challenge traditional genre conventions. The integration of electronic effects and loops is not merely a matter of technical innovation; it’s a way to expand artistic expression, crafting unique and immersive atmospheres.”
Jazz is the child of chaos, a product of beauty and creative madness. The genre’s history is marked by moments of rebirth, by the fusion of styles and cultures—much like the ‘resurrection’ of New York, celebrated by Lakecia Benjamin in her album Phoenix. Jazz is more than just music; it has the power to offer a sense of healing and collective reflection.
“Jazz is far more than just a musical genre; it is a medium of expression that allows musicians and listeners to explore and convey deep and complex emotions. Its inherently improvisational nature enables artists to translate feelings in real time, creating a cathartic experience for both performers and audiences. As sociologist Zygmunt Bauman once noted, jazz can be seen as an 'organized sequence of free outbursts,' capable of addressing social and personal tensions, crafting harmony out of conflict and contrast. This art form is not merely a source of entertainment; it is therapeutic. It offers individuals a space to explore and share their emotional journeys in a safe context, where music becomes a sanctuary. Improvisation in jazz fosters critical reflection, transforming every performance into an opportunity to engage with relevant issues in contemporary society.”
Jazz has always been a form of resistance and a powerful voice in the fight for civil rights. In today’s world, where themes such as gender equality, inclusivity, and peace are once again at the forefront, the Roma Jazz Festival plays a crucial role in reflecting on these values. Through its programming and collaborations, the festival not only celebrates musical innovation but also reinforces the genre’s historical connection to social justice and collective empowerment.
"The history of jazz is intrinsically linked to social activism and continues to serve as a powerful tool for addressing critical issues such as peace and justice. [...] In today’s contemporary jazz scene, we are witnessing an increase in collaborations between artists from diverse ethnic and cultural backgrounds. These interactions not only enrich the musical fabric of the genre but also help build bridges between communities. Each collaboration brings a sense of freshness and diversity, reflecting the shared experiences of the musicians and delivering a message of unity. But how does this pursuit of inclusivity and innovation take shape? Personally, I like to keep an eye on what’s happening around me, to be attuned to changes as they unfold. It’s not just about musical evolution but also about social and cultural transformations. Once a significant theme is identified, artistic projects are selected based on their alignment with that theme. This process involves thorough research and careful listening, which can take months. After identifying the most compelling projects, I strive to strike a balance between established musicians—those who have already made a significant contribution to jazz innovation—and emerging talents who are introducing new sounds. This combination not only captures the contemporary spirit of jazz but also provides a platform for the future of the genre."
With figures like Pat Metheny and Bill Evans, the festival also celebrates improvisation as the heart of jazz (a wonderful thing), and it has become a symbol of individual freedom in an increasingly regulated and technological world.
“Improvisation in jazz is an art form that allows musicians to express their identity and emotions in real time. As Wynton Marsalis emphasizes, jazz is about the ‘power of now’, highlighting the importance of living in the present moment and making immediate decisions. This aspect of improvisation offers a valuable space for creativity and self-expression, allowing artists to break conventions and explore new sounds. However, it is important to note that improvisation is not simply a random act; it requires thorough preparation and skill. This paradox—where freedom emerges from a solid technical foundation—underscores how improvisation is not just chaos, but a form of conscious freedom. In an era where technology can create isolation, jazz presents an opportunity to connect authentically and consciously with others. Improvisation thus becomes a vehicle for deep communication, capable of uniting individuals through shared experiences. In this way, musicians not only express themselves but also contribute to creating a meaningful dialogue with the audience and the world around them.”
The role of women in jazz has long been underestimated, but today artists like Lakecia Benjamin, Nubya Garcia, and many others are rewriting this story. The international jazz scene is changing in terms of gender equality, though there is still much room to explore.
“In recent years, musicians such as Esperanza Spalding, Cécile McLorin Salvant, Lakecia Benjamin, and Nubya Garcia have gained increasing visibility and recognition for their talent and creativity. These artists do not just play; they are also composers and producers, rewriting the narrative of jazz and contributing to a more diverse and representative musical landscape. Their presence not only enriches the genre but also provides a powerful example of resilience and creativity in a field that has historically been male-dominated. However, the journey for female musicians in the world of jazz is not without obstacles; they often face economic barriers and a lack of collaboration opportunities compared to their male counterparts. To overcome these challenges, it is crucial to create support networks among female artists that can facilitate fruitful collaborations and promote a more inclusive environment within the jazz community. A significant example is the Women in Jazz organization, which works to support and promote women in the music industry. It is essential for the jazz community to actively work towards ensuring that all voices are heard and celebrated—it is important to remember that many cultural revolutions have occurred thanks to the achievements of women in society.”
Future projects, next steps, and aspirations.
“As we approach the Jubilee of 2025 and the centennial of two jazz legends, John Coltrane and Miles Davis, in 2026, I’ve decided to delve into a fascinating theme: spirituality in jazz. The connection between religion and music is particularly evident in Coltrane’s works, especially his masterpiece A Love Supreme, and in Miles Davis’s iconic album Kind of Blue. These albums are not only foundational to jazz but also offer profound insights into how music can reflect humanity’s search for meaning and transcendence. Both works carry deep complexity, rooted in the personal experiences of their creators and the cultural context of their time. They continue to inspire musicians and listeners alike, proving that jazz can serve as a powerful vehicle for spiritual expression. With the 50th anniversary of the festival on the horizon, I have an ambitious project in mind that will require sponsorship: organizing a major art exhibition celebrating not only music but also the visual art of figures like Miles Davis, Wayne Shorter, and John Coltrane. I can already envision the vibrant atmosphere of this event, where music and art intertwine to offer visitors a unique, immersive experience.”
