Main performances
auc tAHRIR SQUARE
Opening Concert:
Noha Fekry (EG)
OTOOTO (DK)
You meet Noha this year with a brand-new format. Her compositions are a captivating experience of Arabic storytelling, each song a rich narrative woven with threads of imagery, fantasy, and emotions which transport listeners through a vivid journey, where life’s multifaceted themes come alive—love, loss, adventure, hope, and fun! These compositions are vividly brought to life through Steven Simon’s masterful arrangements, which seamlessly interpret and magnify the rich narratives within Noha’s songs. Steven’s arrangements tactfully blend classical sophistication with contemporary flavors enriching the musical experience. Together, they forge a unique sound and an immersive experience
Friday 1 nov
mINA nASHAAT & tHE sONIC Boom
A vibrant musical journey that seamlessly blends artistry with the mastery of the jazz language crafting performances that evoke deep emotions and reflect relevant life themes, resonating with the diverse experiences of our listeners. Egyptian saxophonist, Mina Nashaat presents his “brand new” project to inspire, uplift, and celebrate the timeless essence of jazz.
Mina Nashaat (Sax), George Nabil (pn), Andre Segone (bs), Ahmed Mostafa Riad “Mickey” (dr)
ERMANNO pANTA & tRIO zEITUN
(sPAIN)
A vibrant musical journey that seamlessly blends artistry with the mastery of the jazz language crafting performances that evoke deep emotions and reflect relevant life themes, resonating with the diverse experiences of our listeners. Egyptian saxophonist, Mina Nashaat presents his “brand new” project to inspire, uplift, and celebrate the timeless essence of jazz.
Mina Nashaat (Sax), George Nabil (pn), Andre Segone (bs), Ahmed Mostafa Riad “Mickey” (dr)
Isabel Rato Quintet (Portugal)
Isabel Rato, Portuguese pianist, composer, arranger and producer, one of the most prominent female names on the Portuguese Jazz scene in recent years, releases her new album “Vale das Flores” in which she moves between jazz and classical tradition with the elegance of someone walking on dream clouds. It seems to bring peace, but it does not forget the struggle of souls with a combination of the qualities of instrumentalist and composer. After all, she is part of this new generation of new, active and ambitious names that are opening windows into the musical plain through jazz. Therefore, jazz, classical and folk tradition come together.
Brekky boy (Australia)
Australian instrumental trio Brekky Boy blend spiritual electronic jazz to evoke the emotions felt when watching a Studio Ghibli film. Brekky Boy decided to have a crack at jazz. Since then the Montreux Jazz Award nominees have gained international acclaim touring the world with standout performances at SXSW (US), Montréal International Jazz Festival (CA), Montreux Jazz Festival (CH), London Jazz Festival (UK), Jazzahead (DE), Saalfelden Jazz Festival (AT) and more. They have sold out shows across the country and supported heavyweights Snarky Puppy and Ambrose Akinmusire.
sATURDAY 2 nOV
Anna Anderluh
Anna Anderluh`s Songs speak of the necessity of absurdity, audacity, and stupidity. She describes her music as „pop with a crack “that bridges the gap between tender poetry and harsh social criticism, between simple fragile songs and experimental vocal improvisation. Through humour and sensitivity, she finds magic in seemingly insignificant details that shine through without adding additional polish. As we listen, we are left with unconventional sounds that dispense with haste and showmanship, are constantly evolving, and refuse to give us the impression that they are finished. Because finished is bland.
Undo Redo
The unique Undo Redo’s sound emerges from the fusion of buckets, pots and other “instruments” from the kitchen and garage alongside live electronic music. Enrichened with elements of jazz, Afro-American music and classical music. This results in an original instrumentally virtuosic mix of electronics, loops and dance beats with a large emphasis of improvisation which is close to all of the members. They won a competition of the Central European Jazz Showcase in 2022.
lAURA kIPP
Artist in residence this year at Cairo Jazz Festival.
Quincy Jones says about Laura, “This young woman doesn‘t need to worry about her career, she is amazing and I am sure we will be hearing more from her in the future.“
Laura expresses the freedom and complexity of Jazz together with the instant emotional power of Pop, Soul and Chanson. S
Jazz from the school
Cairo Jazz Festival, known for its international celebration of jazz since 2009, is taking its commitment to fostering musical talent to the next level this year. In a special initiative under the Jazzinino program and in collaboration with Bandmakers music academy, the festival is set to host young, aspiring musicians from Egyptian schools These school bands will have the incredible opportunity to showcase their talents and participate in Jazzinino, a program designed to inspire and encourage the next generation of music professionals. This exciting opportunity promises to be a memorable musical experience that highlights the festival’s dedication to nurturing emerging artists.
Fri 1 Nov, 2:30 pm – Fountain stage, AUC
sUNDAY 3 NOV
Film
Samba & Jazz
Samba & Jazz’ documentary is a feature film that draws a parallel between these two rhythms and cultures, in a versatile and unpretentious approach, looking for the synergy between the two cities in which they are most present: Rio de Janeiro (Brazil) and New Orleans (United States). Directed by Jefferson Mello, author of the book ‘The Ways of Jazz’, the film portrays, through unusual situations, the authentic artistic expression of these people, that although separated by geographic boundaries, share a common feeling: a passion for music and for the popular manifestations that evolves the universes of Samba and Jazz.
*The film is followed by a discussion with the Brazilian artistic delegation.
Sun 3 Nov – 5:30 pm – The Oriental Hall, AUC
Free entry. Sign up is necessary https://forms.gle/6u9gVzP3gRQKhYDf7
Duo umbe - brazil
Duo Umbê explores loop pedals, octaves, drives and delays, creating special textures that sometimes sounds like a cinematic track wiith explorations that flirt with electronic music, modern jazz and rock, while preserving the Brazilian flavour and roots.
*This concert is brought by the support of embassy of Brazil
Sun 3 Nov – 8:00pm Ewart Hall, AUC
NOHMI QUINTET
nl
Miran Noh, jazz pianist, is the leader of NOHMI Quintet since 2019. She has been nominated for many prestigious prizes, especially Leiden Jazz Award 2021 and Avignon European Jazz Contest 23.
Miran Noh has studied both Jazz and Classical music and been working for both genres. Her original composition has a developing strong motive with lots of layers of polyphonic styles based in classical impressionism era that explores mood and atmosphere through the use of timbre, orchestration, and progressive harmonic concepts influenced by Ravel, Debussy and Prokofiev.
*This Concert is brought by the support from Fonds Podium Kunsten NL.
Sun 3 Nov – 9:30pm Ewart Hall, AUC
MONDAY 4 NOV
Music Therapy: Music beyond entertainment
Music therapist, Sara Fawcett, gives us an interactive overview of her work, with a focus on individuals with special needs, in a panel discussion led by Christine Gordon (MBE), jazz singer and founder of the Rehabilitation Institute for Children with Autism, with guest panelist, Eman Al Alili, novelist and mother of piano prodigy Ahmed Al Hashimi.
Cairo Jazz Festival’s Jazz Talks is curated by Musidonia, in collaboration with Diwan Bookstores.
Mon 4 Nov – 5:30 pm – The Oriental Hall, AUC
sHADY aL qSSEER
eGYPT
Shady’s musical journey unfolds like a story told through sound. In 2015, he formed his quartet to bring his original compositions to life, and by 2016, it blossomed into a septet, embracing the influences of his travels and the many places that have left their mark on him. His music, a rich tapestry woven from these experiences, offers listeners a deeply personal and evocative soundscape. With his nonet debuting in 2024, Shady’s evolving arrangements and harmonies delve even deeper, creating layers of complexity and emotional resonance.
Mon 4 Nov – Ewart Hall, AUC
Andrew Milad Trio - EGYPT
Andrew Milad began studying piano with Marcel Matta at the age of eight and won the Chopin International Piano Competition for Youth in Egypt in 2021. His passion for jazz music led him to study with renowned Egyptian pianist Rashad Fahim (a Berklee College of Music graduate) at the age of fifteen. He was also nominated for a partial scholarship to study contemporary music writing and production at Berklee. With his trio, Andrew performs his compositions, which he released in his debut album titled *Sultan*, blending Egyptian folk heritage with jazz in some of the pieces.
Monday, November 4 – Ewart Hall, 9:30 pm
Tuesday 5 nov
JACOPO FERRAZZA (CONTRABASS) iTALY
Multi-award winner and one of the prominent Jazz bassists on the European scene, a student of John Patitucci, Aldo Perris, and Marco Panascia. He is a teacher of jazz double bass and ensemble music at the “Refice” conservatory in Frosinone. Jacopo has played with great exponents of national and international music such as Dave Liebman, Nicola Piovani, Fabrizio Bosso, Enrico Rava, Paolo Fresu, Logan Richardson, Roberto Gatto, Javier Girotto among numerous names.
The Hill House, AUC 5:30 pm
free entry. sign up is necessary
Jacopo Ferrazza & Simona Severini (NAUSICA) Italy
NAUSICA is a dialogue between two similar musicians like Simona Severini and Jacopo Ferrazza who after years of knowing each other meet for the first time on stage. represents the relationship between the song form and jazz; structure and improvisation; impetus and intimacy. It features songs of their own composition conceived for this project, pieces by Joni Mitchell and other authors, reworked through a minimal sound but with great expressive force
Simona Severini
Simona took her first steps in the world of music studying classical guitar. She had the opportunity to sing with well-known Italian musicians, including Pacifico, Enrico Pieranunzi, Giorgio Gaslini and Gabriele Mirabassi.
JACOPO FERRAZZA
Multi-award winner and one of the prominent Jazz bassists on the European scene, a student of John Patitucci, Aldo Perris, and Marco Panascia. He is a teacher of jazz double bass and ensemble music at the “Refice” conservatory in Frosinone. Jacopo has played with great exponents of national and international music such as Dave Liebman, Nicola Piovani, Fabrizio Bosso, Enrico Rava, Paolo Fresu, Logan Richardson, Roberto Gatto, Javier Girotto among numerous names.
*This concert is brought by the support of the Italian Institute for Culture
Tue 5 Nov – Ewart Hall, AUC 8:00 pm
A jazz quintet from Poland, dedicated to exploring various musical concepts in their artistic journey. The group is driven by a commitment to genre fluidity and the freedom of musical expression. Their name reflects a deep appreciation for the diversity of musical styles. The music of Unleashed Cooperation is the culmination of years of experience and a deep dive into the realms of jazz, free improvisation, and ethnic music.
*This concert is brought by the support from the embassy of Poland and Jazz Po Polsku.
Tue 5 Nov – Ewart Hall, AUC 9:30 pm
FUNDING OPPORTUNITIES FOR MUSIC PROJECTS
This meeting seeks to acquaint music composers with original projects across various musical genres with cultural institutions that support production through grant programs, as well as institutions offering travel grants for participation in international events. The objective is to foster increased music production and elevate its artistic quality. It also provides advice on how to submit grant applications and present projects professionally.
Key Speakers:
Ramy Dessouky – Financial and Administrative Manager at EU National Institutes for Culture – Egypt
Since 2017, Ramy had successfully managed projects across various sectors directly with total budgets of approximately EUR 15.5 million as well accepted proposals projects in MENA for approximately EUR 42 million in funding for various sector such as Art, cultural, Creative economy, Development and Humanitarian sector.
Tue 5 Nov – The Oriental Hall, AUC 6:00 pm
free entry. sign up is necessary https://forms.gle/dw1fP4Yw8UoAsDZZ8
Wednesday 6 nov
Christine Gordon - Uk
Christine Gordon is excited to be performing in the magical city of Cairo, the place that launched her career as a jazz singer in the 1990s. Her singing career has taken her all over the world performing in a variety of locations both with bands and as a soloist. Christine has had a parallel career in the charity field working with people with autism spectrum disorder for which she received an MBE in 2015.
Featuring:
Amro Salah, piano/keys
Samer George, bass
Andrew Maher, guitar
Amr Khairy, drums
Wed 6 Nov – Ewart Hall, AUC 8:00 pm
Yassen Mahgoub - EG
Award Winner Egyptian singer, songwriter, music producer, and director, Yassen Mahgoub, received his music composition award from the Supreme Council of Culture in 2024. His career began in 2010 with the band “Qarar Ezala.” Since then, he collaborated with various musicians from diverse musical backgrounds and genres driven by a passion for improvisation and fusion with over 150 concerts with his project “Qarar Ezala,” He took part in the Venice Biennale 2024 among numerous independent performances, theatre, films, live collaborations and a portfolio of six albums.
Wed 6 Nov – Ewart Hall, 9:30 pm
Thursday 7 nov
Icons among us: jazz in the present tense
Jazz is undergoing changes of monumental magnitude and importance. Icons Among Us: jazz in the present tense, is a documentary film that captures the metamorphosis of jazz by showcasing the words, music, and spirit of the artists that are paving the way for an unprecedented musical evolution.
*A discussion with prominent jazz figures in Egypt from three different generations will follow the film.
The Oriental Hall, 5:30 pm
free entry. Sign up necessary https://forms.gle/3x3wjt9E1AWWpUfc6
courtsey of Paradigm Studio – West coast, USA
OUTHENTIC - BG
Outhentic blends tastefully Balkan folk music, jazz and contemporary improvised music.
formed in 2012 by Zhivko Vasilev (kaval, piano) and Rayna Vasileva (vocal, percussion) The mission of the Outhentic Foundation is to present folklore in an accessible and attractive way that can be easily perceived and appreciated by the young audience, to spread Bulgarian culture in Bulgaria and abroad. Outhentic had the opportunity to collaborate with extraordinary world-famous musicians and bands such as: the
Grammy-nominated bassist – Juan Garcia-Herreros, Stoyan Yankoulov, Ian Stevenson, and Suchet Malhotra. In 2017, they were invited to perform at the famous Glastonbury festival in the UK.
*This concert is brought by the support of the embassy of Bulgaria
Thu 7 Nov – Ewart hall 8:00 pm
hANY sHENOUDA & eL mASSRIEEN
El-Massrieen Band is more than just a musical group; it is a cultural phenomenon that transformed the landscape of Egyptian pop music. Founded by the visionary composer Hany Shenouda in the late 1970s, the band introduced a revolutionary sound that blended the soul of traditional Arabic music with the bold, contemporary rhythms of the West. This innovative fusion didn’t just entertain—it resonated deeply with audiences, becoming the voice of a generation. With a legacy that spans decades, El-Massrieen continues to inspire both old and new listeners, proving that their music is as timeless as the emotions it conveys. With a legacy that spans decades, El-Massrieen continues to inspire both old and new listeners, proving that their music is as timeless as the emotions it conveys.
Thu 7 Nov – Ewart Hall 9:30 pm
FRIDAY 8 NOV
jAZZININO: BANDMAKERS SHOWCASE
Band Makers Academy, a leading institution in music education, has been powering the Jazzinino program since 2017. In addition to this, they organize a range of events and competitions for young musicians, including the popular Battle of the Bands, providing a platform for emerging talent to shine.
Band Makers Academy will take to the stage on the final day to share their musical talents with the audience.
Fri 8 Nov – Fountain stage 1:00 pm
El Nafikha - Eg
The band particularly focuses on developing arrangements for brass instruments, as well as reinterpreting traditional and Oriental pieces with a modern sound tailored for these instruments by some of the band members graduates of the Academy of Arts. Brass bands, once prominent in the Egyptian folk music, have largely faded away following the disappearance of the legacy Hasballa Band. Additionally, the group is dedicated to creating and composing original works for brass instruments, aiming to introduce a new modern dimension to Egyptian music.
Fri 8 Nov – Fountain stage 6:30 pm
lorenzo de finti quartet - Switzerland
Immerse yourself in the soulful chamber jazz world of Lorenzo De Finti Quartet where inspiration meets outstanding technique and artistic expression. Recognized early in his career, Lorenzo has graced prestigious European venues and garnered acclaim for his debut album, “WE LIVE HERE” followed by the second release “LOVE UNKNOWN,”. The albums captured global attention and paved the way for an extensive European tour, solidifying their place as a dynamic force in European jazz.
*This concert is brought by the support of Pro Helvetia Cairo
Fri 8 Nov Ewart Hall 8:00 pm
Closing concert:
Massar Egbari - Egypt
Massar Egbari is a leading Egyptian pop/rock band that has captivated audiences since its formation in 2005. The band is known for its powerful lyrics and its unique fusion of rock, jazz, and oriental music, addressing social and cultural issues with a distinctive and relatable voice. The band’s name, which means “Forced Path,” reflects the everyday struggles and ambitions of ordinary people, making their music an inspiring anthem for many. Over the years, the band has become a cornerstone of Egypt’s independent music scene, gaining widespread recognition both locally and internationally.
The band was honored by UNESCO as Artists for Intercultural Dialogue in 2011. They were also awarded Best Band in the Middle East at the Middle East Music Awards (MEMA) in 2014, 2017, and 2018. In 2023, they won the Creative Industry Summit Award for Best Song in a Ramadan series for the show “El Harsha El Sab’a.” In 2024, they received the NRJ Drama Award for Best Song for the series “Massar Egbari.”
Fri 8 Nov – Ewart Hall, 9:30 pm
