Pori Jazz 43rd Festival 2008
“If you have to ask what jazz is, you’ll never know.”
Louis Armstrong
One thing that Pori is famous for is its annual international jazz festival which started in the year 1966 and since then is known throughout Europe as a prestigious music festival. This year is the 43rd festival which kicked off last July 12 and will end until the 20th. Various concerts are held simultaneously in different locations within Pori, with the main stage and arena at Kirjurinluoto Park, and more concerts held daily at the JazzStreet along the Kokemäenjoki river, the Radio Nova stage, Klubi, Theatre, Otava Factory and other venues.
Being an international music festival, it has drawn many notable performers such as Miles Davis, Alicia Keys, Stevie Wonder, James Brown, Sting and lots more. This year’s event highlights performances by Santana, Bob Geldof, Shaggy and Mary J Blige and tickets are already sold out.
Despite being so tired last Monday, we managed to sneak out and take a peek at the Jazz Street that evening.
There were some people walking along the streets, some stopping by for souvenirs and snacks at the many kiosks and stalls lined up along the sides, while a large crowd was enjoying a free concert. While on our way home, this street banner caught our attention.
Q. So, when do music lovers become travel bugs?
A. When they need to travel to a faraway place to watch a live concert of their favorite artist or band. 🙂
I like Alicia Keys!
One thing that distinguishes “small town” events from “big city” ones is they provide a unique atmosphere where almost every place is within a walking distance and a cozy pub to pop into is always available. They keep you in a travel mood whereas in a big city they become a night-out, a sort of rush.
Very nice pictures.
Bug life:
Yup same here, I like her too. 🙂
Unguided:
The small town of Pori became crowded and alive with tourists and music enthusiasts for the festival… but now everything’s back to normal with the usual serene and laid back atmosphere – with just few people roaming on the streets.
Thanks for dropping by!