The NICE JAZZ FESTIVAL is a unique event in its genre. Since 1974, the year it was established in the culturally significant Jardins et Arènes de Cimiez in Nice, it has been recognized as one of the foremost jazz festivals in the world.
Its reputation has only grown since then, thanks to an ambitious editorial policy that widely embraces the diversity of the Afro-American heritage, initiated by Viviane Sicnasi. At a time when jazz is incorporating rhythms and melodies from global cultures, this major summer gathering on the French Riviera, attracting around 55,000 spectators annually, bets more than ever on eclecticism and diversity. In addition to traditional jazz, the festival features current trends in pop, world music, blues, soul, R’n’B, and funk in a generous and fertile blend.
Add to this creative effervescence the idyllic setting of the Jardins de Cimiez, overlooking Gallo-Roman arenas with hints of lavender scent and the breezes of the Mediterranean, and it’s clear that all the ingredients for a warm and festive atmosphere are present.
For this particularly innovative 2006 edition, the NICE JAZZ FESTIVAL draws a plethora of stars with a dazzling lineup full of surprises. In addition to the artists handpicked by Viviane Sicnasi, she does not neglect her role as a “talent scout” by providing a platform of exceptional quality to young hopefuls.
Clearly, the spirit of discovery is an integral part of the mission of the NICE JAZZ FESTIVAL, firmly committed to competing in warmth, spontaneity, and enthusiasm across themed evenings throughout 8 Days of FUN presented across 3 STAGES in 75 CONCERTS featuring 500 MUSICIANS.
Legends, exclusives, international revelations, hopes, and discoveries… In unison with an ever-loyal audience, this 32nd edition of the NICE JAZZ FESTIVAL will celebrate all the colors of the jazz-inspired music rainbow.
Program of the Nice Jazz Festival (subject to changes)
Wednesday, July 19
– Erykah Badu
– Roy Hargrove Quintet
– Makoto Ozone Trio
– Demi Evans
Thursday, July 20
– Juanes
– Cesaria Evora
– Anaïs
– Bojan Z
– Kyle Eastwood
– J-M Jafet Agora Quartet
– Sintesis
Friday, July 21
– Toto
– Elisabeth Kontomanou
– Hank Jones Quartet featuring Roberta Gambarini
– Daughters of Soul
Saturday, July 22
– George Clinton
– Suzanne Vega
– JJ Milteau Blues Conversation
– John Butler Trio
Sunday, July 23
– Kanye West
– Beat Assailant
– Cirkus Feat. Neneh Cherry
– Joe Jackson
Monday, July 24
– Neville Brothers
– Incognito
– Marcus Miller
– Popa Chubby
– David Walters
– Stephane Huchard
– Etienne M’Bappé
Tuesday, July 25
– Salif Keita
– Seun Kuti & Egypt 80
– Marcelo D2
– Calypso @ Dirty Jim’s
– Jehro
– Sunshiners
– Cheikh Lo
Wednesday, July 26
– Bénabar
– Smooth
– Raul Midon
– Bumcello
– Agnes Jaoui
– Tamango’s Urban Tap
