Cyrpus Jazz and World Music Showcase

Acknowledging the presence and influence of the Jazz and World Music genres on the Cypriot contemporary music creation, the Cultural Services of the Ministry of Education and Culture, Cyprus Music Information Centre and the Rialto Theatre organised for the first time in 2014 the first Cyprus Jazz and World Music Showcase. Following in the footsteps of other contemporary international music festivals, they aimed, through this Showcase, at presenting important works, composers and virtuoso instrumentalists who exceed the geographic boundaries of Cyprus.

The first Showcase was organised in memory of Cypriot composer, guitarist and music teacher Savvas Houvartas, one of the most prominent composers of his generation who left a significant legacy despite his short career. His work undoubtedly constitutes a reference point for the next generations, as well as a source of inspiration.

The primary objective of the Jazz & World Music Showcase, now established as an annual event, is the presentation, encouragement and promotion of Cypriot composers and musicians, as well as the enhancement of their communication with the audience. Another equally important objective is to ensure music networking both in Cyprus and abroad. Within this context, the event provides an additional incentive to Cypriot artists, since it offers to all participants the opportunity to establish collaborations between them, as well as to create synergies with artists from other countries. In order to secure this objective, prominent personalities from the international music scene are invited every year to attend the concerts, with a view to promoting the contemporary artists of Cyprus and building bridges and collaborations between musicians, organisers and international festivals.

The main programme of the Showcase is enriched with a series of parallel events, such as jam sessions, workshops and discussions featuring international guests. Hence, emphasis is given on the education and information received by the artists themselves, but also the organisers whose mission is to empower the cultural development of the island and to discover modern ways of producing and promoting music internationally.