The festival first came to life in 2007, marking the beginning of what has become an annual celebration of music, culture, and creativity. The inaugural edition set the tone for the diverse and vibrant event we know today, bringing together an incredible lineup of artists from around the world.
A Global Stage: The Artists of 2007
The first edition of the festival featured a rich mix of local and international talent, each artist contributing their unique sound and energy to the event. Here’s a look at the performers who graced the stage in 2007:
Brazil – Ruthe London: Bringing the warmth and rhythm of Brazilian jazz, Ruthe London captivated audiences with her soulful performances.
Canada – Christine Jensen: Representing Canada, Christine Jensen showcased her talents as a saxophonist and composer, adding a touch of modern jazz to the lineup.
France – Mario Canonge Trio: The Mario Canonge Trio from France delivered an unforgettable performance with their fusion of Caribbean rhythms and jazz, highlighting the diverse influences that make jazz a global phenomenon.
Haïti – 18 Karats & Pierre Rigaud Chéry: This local group, along with the talented Pierre Rigaud Chéry, brought the rich musical traditions of Haiti to the stage, offering a vibrant blend of jazz and Haitian rhythms.
Haïti – Acajou: Another local favorite, Acajou, delivered a performance full of energy and passion, representing the dynamic music scene of Haiti.
Haïti – Badji & Thurgot Théodat: Thurgot Théodat, a key figure in Haitian jazz, joined forces with Badji to present a unique fusion of jazz and Vodou music.
Haïti – Boulo Valcourt: Boulo Valcourt, a legend in Haitian music, shared his soulful voice and guitar skills, creating a memorable connection with the audience.
Haïti – Claude Carré: Pianist Claude Carré brought a touch of elegance to the festival with his refined and sophisticated jazz stylings.
Haïti – Ginou Oriol: Ginou Oriol’s performance was a highlight, blending traditional Haitian music with jazz to create something truly special.
Haïti – Marc Richard: Another talented Haitian artist, Marc Richard, added his unique voice to the festival, captivating the audience with his artistry.
Haïti – Mozayik: The group Mozayik delivered a high-energy performance, blending jazz with the rhythms and sounds of Haiti.
Haïti – Reginald Policard: Reginald Policard, a revered pianist and composer, showcased the beauty of Haitian jazz with his intricate compositions and performances.
Haïti – Follow Jah: Adding a festive element to the festival, Follow Jah brought the spirit of Haitian street music to life with their vibrant performance.
Haïti/USA – Buyu Ambroise: Saxophonist Buyu Ambroise, representing both Haiti and the USA, delivered a performance that fused his Haitian roots with the jazz traditions of New York.
Mexico – Tantra Jazz: From Mexico, Tantra Jazz brought a unique flavor to the festival with their innovative approach to Latin jazz.
Spain – Francisco Molina: Spanish artist Francisco Molina added a European touch to the event, demonstrating the universal appeal of jazz.
USA – The Hand Made Quartet: Representing the USA, The Hand Made Quartet closed out the festival with a performance that blended traditional jazz with contemporary influences, showcasing the versatility and evolution of the genre.
A Legacy of Music and Culture
The 2007 festival was a testament to the power of music to unite people from different cultures and backgrounds. It laid the foundation for what has become a beloved annual event, bringing together artists and audiences from around the world to celebrate the rich tapestry of jazz.
As we look back on that first edition, we are reminded of the festival's roots and the incredible journey we’ve embarked on since then. The Port-au-Prince International Jazz Festival continues to grow and evolve, but the spirit of that inaugural year remains—an unwavering commitment to showcasing the best of jazz and fostering a cultural exchange that enriches us all.
We’re proud of where we’ve come from, and we’re excited about where we’re headed. Here’s to the music, the memories, and many more years of celebrating jazz in the heart of Haiti!
