The 32nd Istanbul Jazz Festival kicks off in style on Tuesday 01 July with a true living legend of Afro-Cuban jazz—seven-time Grammy winner Chucho Valdés. Organised by İKSV, this unforgettable opening night will take place at the iconic Harbiye Cemil Topuzlu Open Air Theatre. Tickets are available now at Passo!
Chucho Valdés, a Cuban pianist, composer, and arranger, is widely recognised as one of the most influential figures in the history of Latin jazz. Founder of the trailblazing band Irakere, Valdés revolutionised Cuban music by blending African rhythms with jazz, creating a fearless, genre-defying sound. Since embarking on his solo career in 1998, he has continued to break musical boundaries—fusing jazz with classical, rock, and Afro-Cuban traditions, and earning global acclaim along the way. His epic composition La Creación, completed in celebration of his 80th birthday, stands as a testament to his visionary artistry.
Valdés will be joined on stage by an all-star lineup featuring Horacio “El Negro” Hernandez on drums, José A. Gola on bass, and Roberto Jr. Vizcaino on percussion—each a master in their own right. Don’t miss this powerful opening to the 32nd Istanbul Jazz Festival, where rhythm, heritage, and innovation collide under the stars. Tickets available now at Passo!
Harbiye, Taşkışla Cd. No:8, 34367 Şişli/İstanbul
