During a press briefing held in the heart of Albert I Garden, where the festival will be held this year, Christian Estrosi provided an update on the organization of the 2011 edition. He also took the opportunity to reveal the names of some of the festival’s headliners.
For the 2011 edition, the Nice Jazz Festival is moving from the heights of Nice and Cimiez to the city center, in the Albert I Garden. “It was decided to move the festival to Albert I to, on one hand, preserve the Cimiez site and, on the other hand, allow better accessibility for visitors,” explained the mayor of Nice. This relocation is not insignificant, as the economic argument was also emphasized. “The fact that the festival takes place in the heart of the city will also enable economic revitalization of the tourist center,” added the Nice official. He also stressed that this change of location would make the event even more accessible. “In a bid to democratize culture, I want this festival to be open to everyone, regardless of where they come from,” he commented.
A varied lineup
A festival open to everyone with a varied lineup. Even though the full program will not be unveiled for another ten days, the mayor of the Côte d’Azur capital disclosed some details. “There will be nine different themed nights during the festival,” he confirmed. Nine themes which include: Homage to Miles Davis Night, Jazz Electro, World Music, Soul Music, Funk Music, Jazz Made in France, Blues Night, New Generation, and Masters of Jazz. A wide range of themes that will delight a broader audience. The participation of Harry Lapp (artistic director of the festival), John McLaughlin (patron of the 2011 edition), as well as Ahmad Jamal (pianist), Jean-Jacques Milteau (harmonica player), and Asha are also noted. The Nice Jazz Festival will be held from July 8 to 12, 2011.
