Free jazz performance in La Manga delights residents and visitors. Photo Credit: San Javier Town Hall
On Sunday, July 12, the Costa Calida municipality of San Javier saw a spectacular jazz performance on the Puerto Tomás Maestre in La Manga del Mar Menor. Forming part of the 28th edition of the San Javier International Jazz Festival, this immersive and festive jazz performance by The Blue Horses and vocalist Suzette Moncrief took place on the famed seaside of this charming town, and brought smooth rhythms and energetic stage presence to excited residents and visitors.
Bringing jazz beats to the beach in San Javier
The concert, which took place at 10:00pm, brought together tradition and modernity in one of the three free concerts that the Festival offers outside the auditorium.
A fusion of modern and traditional jazz
The Blue Horses is a contemporary jazz group that has been described as having a fresh and sophisticated sound. Led by Cuban tenor saxophonist and flautist Inoidel González and Spanish tenor and soprano saxophonist Pablo García, the group stands out for its influences from modern jazz, blues, and funk. Overflowing with rhythm and lyricism, the group not only honours the roots of this vibrant genre, but also constantly experiments to push the boundaries of the language of jazz, all while paying respect to the traditional sound of it.
Their performances have been described by the San Javier Town Hall as “intense and communicative” where “improvisation plays a central role.”
Soulful vocals by Suzette Moncrief, a star on the contemporary jazz scene
Moncrief, on the other hand, perfectly complements the group’s original compositions with her soulful performances. Originally from New York and based in Andalucia, Suzette Moncrief has been acclaimed for her expressiveness, her powerful stage presence, and her ability to reinterpret the jazz repertoire with a contemporary sound. Drawing on great jazz influences, she blends soul, blues, and gospel music.
The music set to continue in San Javier: Jazz Festival wraps up on July 24
But the end of this performance does not mean the end of the Festival. This 28th edition of the long-awaited event will end on July 24, meaning there are still more jaw-dropping, jazzy performances to enjoy in this charming and beloved coastal municipality. Tickets can be purchased on the official website, jazz.sanjavier.es.
Whether a seasoned jazz aficionado or a curious newcomer that has never listened to the genre, San Javier has something for everyone to enjoy throughout July, and continues to establish itself as a hub of music and culture on the Costa Calida.
