Cyprus may not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of jazz music, but this Mediterranean island has a burgeoning jazz scene that is worth exploring. From intimate clubs featuring local and international artists to annual festivals that draw in jazz enthusiasts from around the globe, there are plenty of opportunities to get your jazz fix in Cyprus.
One of the main hubs for jazz in Cyprus is the capital city of Nicosia, which is home to a number of talented artists and venues. Sarah’s Jazz Club, which was founded in 2017, holds regular jazz, blues, and soul nights and works to promote jazz culture on the island. They host jam sessions and concerts at their venue located in the heart of Nicosia. The club has an artistic and cozy lounge atmosphere with a fully-stocked bar, making it the perfect spot to enjoy some live jazz.
Some of the local artists who perform at Sarah’s Jazz Club include singer Sarah Fenwick, saxophonist Charis Ioannou, pianist Dimitris Miaris and drummer Marios Spyrou. International artists include trumpeter John Marshal, saxophonist Gilad Atzmon, Grammy award-winning guitarist Mark Whitfield, and world-renowned drummer Joe Farnsworth.
Sarah Fenwick is a jazz singer with a magnetic voice and a passion for the American Songbook. With a career spanning more than two decades, Fenwick has earned a reputation as one of the premier jazz vocalists in Cyprus. She has released multiple albums and frequently performs at jazz clubs and festivals abroad and around the island.
Charis Ioannou is a tenor saxophonist with a long track record and a bright future ahead of him. A native of Nicosia, Ioannou started playing the sax at a young age and quickly developed a love for jazz. He has honed his skills through years of practice and performance and is now an influential fixture on the Cyprus jazz scene.
Pianist Dimitris Miaris is a rising star in the world of jazz. A talented musician with a keen ear for melody, Miaris has made a name for himself with his dynamic live performances and original compositions. He has released several albums as a leader and frequently collaborates with other musicians on the Cyprus jazz scene.
Another popular spot in Nicosia is Pallas Theatre, which is located in the historic quarter of the city. This intimate venue hosts local and international jazz acts.
If you’re in Cyprus during the summer months, be sure to attend the Aglanjazz Festival, which also has a focus on jazz music. This multi-genre music festival takes place in the ancient city of Nicosia.
But jazz in Cyprus isn’t limited to the capital city. The coastal town of Limassol also has a thriving jazz scene, venues like Library Bar and Vinylio in the picturesque Old Town district which feature a mix of indoor and outdoor performances.
In addition, there are also a number of jazz events that take place in Larnaca’s Tudor Inn and Pafos’ Technopolis, offering a mix of local jazz acts.
More artist profiles
Alice Ayvazian is a jazz singer with a powerful voice and a unique style. Born and raised in Cyprus, Ayvazian began singing at a young age and quickly developed a love for jazz. She frequently performs at jazz clubs and festivals around the island. In addition to her work as a singer, Ayvazian is also a talented educator.
Costas Challoumas is a bassist with a deep understanding of jazz tradition. Challoumas has been playing the bass for more than two decades and has performed with many of the top jazz musicians in Cyprus. He is known for his solid groove and technical prowess and is a sought-after performer on the island’s jazz scene.
Havana Noche is a dynamic band that brings the energy and spirit of Cuban music to the Cyprus jazz scene. Led by drummer Constantinos Paouros, the band’s music is a blend of traditional Cuban styles and jazz. With their infectious rhythms and catchy melodies, Havana Noche has become a fan favorite at jazz clubs and festivals around the island.
Ronja Burve is a jazz singer with a captivating voice and a love for classic standards. A native of Riga, Latvia, Burve discovered her love for jazz while studying music in college. Since then, she has made a name for herself on the jazz scene in Europe, performing at clubs and festivals throughout the continent. In addition to her work as a singer, Burve is also a talented songwriter and arranger. She has released several albums and is known for her creative interpretations of classic jazz tunes.
Christos Yerolatsitis is a skilled jazz pianist with a passion for improvisation and exploration. A native of Nicosia, Cyprus, Yerolatsitis began playing the piano at a young age and quickly developed a love for jazz. He has honed his skills through years of practice and performance and is now a well-respected musician on the Cyprus jazz scene. Yerolatsitis is known for his expressive playing style and his ability to connect with his audience through his music. He has released several albums as a leader and frequently collaborates with other musicians on the island. In addition to his work as a pianist, Yerolatsitis is also a respected music teacher, sharing his love of jazz with the next generation of musicians.
As you can see, jazz is alive and well in Cyprus, and we’ve mentioned just a few of the talented and active musicians. Whether you’re a die-hard jazz fan or just looking to discover something new, there’s something for everyone on this beautiful island. So next time you’re planning a trip to Cyprus, be sure to check out some of the jazz events and venues – you might just discover your new favorite jazz artist.
For a comprehensive Who’s Who of Jazz in Cyprus, check out our feature article here.
