Some of the biggest names in the Cypriot jazz scene are getting together on Wednesday for a concert that celebrates this year’s International Jazz Day. Organised by the Department of Contemporary Culture, the event will take place at Eleftheria Square at 8pm with the multi-ensemble MorFarm Big Band Co taking the floor.

MorFarm Big Band Co. is a dynamic orchestra founded by Giorgos Morfitis in June 2024. The 12-member orchestra consists of 10 outstanding musicians and two vocalists, all of whom are distinguished professionals actively contributing to the jazz and ethnic music scene in Cyprus.

The orchestra includes Alice Aivazian and Alexis Economou on vocals, Elias Ioannou on trumpet, Nikolas Georgiou on saxophone/ and lute, Charis Ioannou and Thomas Lumley on saxophone, Andreas Theocharous and Vangelis Drouliskos on trombone, Rodrigo Cáceres on electric bass, Vasilis Charalambous on percussions, Rodos Panayiotou on drums and Giorgos Morfitis on piano, arrangements and conducting.

With the concert The Latin Side of the Jazz Standards, the orchestra explores the past, breathing new life into timeless jazz standards from the Big Band era of the 1930s and 1940s. Unique arrangements bring style and flair with Cuban musical influences from Latin Jazz and Timba, offering a fresh, upbeat sound that bridges a century of music.

Morfitis aims to fuse historic jazz with the vibrant Latin influences of today. This innovative approach not only honours the original pieces but also reinvents them, allowing modern audiences to connect with the music.

What’s more, as the event is held under the auspices of the Cyprus National Commission for Unesco, it is free to attend and will also be livestreamed to all countries participating in the celebrations.

The Latin Side of the Jazz Standards

Jazz concert by the MorFarm Big Band Co to celebrate International Jazz Day. April 30. Eleftheria Square, Nicosia. 8pm. Free