The Antalya Akra Jazz Festival, which brought together leading names in jazz and world music with art lovers between May 14 and 31, set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Mediterranean Sea and the Bey Mountains, hosted unforgettable moments in its eighth year. The festival culminated on the evenings of May 30 and 31 with two special concerts by world-renowned pianist and composer Fazıl Say, themed “50 Years at the Piano.” In an impressive performance, Say was accompanied by master drummer Ferit Odman on jazz arrangements, delivering a memorable musical experience.
Festival closing speaker Yekta Kopan remarked, “This year’s Akra Jazz Festival offered us a magnificent experience—not only with the main stage concerts but also with masterclasses and jam session nights, which have become a cherished tradition, unlike any other festival in the world.” Fazıl Say, welcomed by enthusiastic applause, greeted the audience: “It is a great pleasure to share the stage with a jazz master like Ferit Odman and such a creative artist.” He added, “It means a lot to me that the Akra Hotel family has gifted this city and all of us with the jazz festival and these wonderful contributions to Turkish cultural life.”
Organized by Akra Hotels and with transportation sponsored by Turkish Airlines, the festival will feature renowned trumpeter Ibrahim Maalouf, who has released 17 albums and received prestigious Grammy nominations; Grammy award-winning vocalist and multi-instrumentalist Richard Bona; Kurt Elling, one of the most important names in jazz vocals; guitarist Charlie Hunter and his group SuperBlue; Melody Gardot, who blends R&B, blues, pop, and jazz with a poetic sensibility; vocalist and guitarist Fatoumata Diawara, whose music reflects the spirit of Africa; the world-renowned saxophonist Igor Butman; the Moscow Jazz Orchestra; and vocalist Fantine.