Moving between Morocco, France, Ghana, and the United States, composer Ismail Sentissi has navigated the many paths of world music, exploring a broad spectrum of rhythms. From metal to afrobeat, with chaabi along the way, he ultimately found his voice in a jazz style that truly reflects who he is. Rooted in personal experience, his repertoire breaks away from convention and draws directly from the journey that shaped it.
New setting, new experience. That’s what the artistic co-directors of the Jazz à Rabat festival delivered in this 27th edition, now renamed and relocated to Hassan II Park in the capital. Through their affinities and collaborations, Majid Bekkas and Jean-Pierre Bissot continue to push the boundaries of jazz. By striking the right balance and upholding the same high standards as always, the duo brings every kind of music to the stage, from Gnawa to Balkan rhythms, and even rap.
Maalem Majid Bekkas and the British group Waaju undeniably have the talent to elevate jazz through Gnaoua music, and vice versa, crafting a distinctive sound that is entirely their own. More than a simple fusion, their creative partnership has given rise to the album Alouane, along with its live performance. Released in October 2024, the project made its Moroccan debut during the 18th edition of the Jazzablanca Festival. In the vibrant setting of Casablanca, this ensemble of virtuosos felt
Dutch saxophonist and singer Candy Dulfer captivated the audience at the 17th Jazzablanca festival (June 6-8, 2024) with her greatest hits from the 1980s and 1990s. Closing the concert with a humanist message, she was joined by mâalma Hind Ennaira for a festive fusion of jazz, Gnaoua, and African rhythms.
Moroccan academic Hisham Aidi, a professor at Columbia University in the United States, won many prizes for his books, in which he discussed the relationship between art and politics.