The KatJazz International Music Festival recently took place in Kathmandu, Nepal, and brought together different kinds of music, including jazz, folk, and contemporary sounds. The event, held from April 18 to April 30, aimed to highlight women artists and promote musical collaboration across the world.
A Focus on Women in Music
This year, the festival focused on women in music. It was not just a theme, but a long-overdue celebration. Half of the concerts featured women artists, giving them a powerful platform to showcase their talent. From local artists to performers from other countries, women were at the heart of this year’s festival. The event helped to shine a light on their contributions to music and emphasized the importance of equal representation.
Diverse Music from Around the World
KatJazz is known for blending different music styles. This year, the festival continued that tradition with a mix of jazz, folk, and contemporary music. Local artists from Nepal and musicians from around the world came together to share their sounds and stories.
The festival opened on April 18 at Bhumi Restaurant in Lazimpat. Performances included Yaju & Samita, who blended folk and classical styles, and Kunzanee, who explored tradition through a modern lens. The night also featured Nami, who brought jazz and pop together in a vibrant set. These performances set the tone for the entire festival, showing the power of mixing old and new musical traditions.
On April 19, Chilean duo ‘Ser o Duo & friends’ took the stage at The Kyampa, Sanepa. Their performance featured a wide range of instruments, including flutes and guitars. The duo’s music was a mix of South American and Western sounds, which created a unique and welcoming atmosphere for the audience.
International Collaborations and Workshops
Throughout the festival, musicians from around the world performed alongside Nepali artists. This collaboration allowed for the sharing of musical ideas and the creation of new sounds. On April 20, Canadian trumpeter Paul Tynan performed at Jazz Upstairs, Lazimpat. He joined local and international musicians for a night of jazz improvisation, offering a fresh, creative take on traditional jazz.
The festival also offered workshops and classes, where musicians could teach students and share their knowledge. These workshops were important for developing Nepal’s music scene and connecting local musicians with global talent.
On April 22, the festival held a concert at Electric Pagoda, Thamel, showcasing new Nepali sounds. Rajat Rai performed, blending Nepali folk rhythms with jazz and West African beats. ‘Sonagi Blues’ added to the mix by combining traditional instruments and rock energy. This concert demonstrated how Nepalese musicians are creating fresh sounds by combining traditional and modern styles.
A Day for Women in Music
April 26 was dedicated to women in music. The event, held at The Yellow House, Sanepa, brought together artists like Ya Si Ver & Co, Once We Knew, Carole Alston, and the Fixel Trio ft. Jatziri Gallegos. This full-day event celebrated female musicians from around the world. It was a moment for everyone to recognize the strength and talent of women in the music industry.
Cross-Cultural Jazz and Exchange
On April 29, Thai saxophonist Pathorn Srikaranonda performed at Jazz Upstairs in Lazimpat. His concert featured cross-cultural collaborations and jazz improvisations. The performance highlighted the festival’s mission to connect artists from different backgrounds and create a global conversation through music.
The festival closed on April 30 with ‘The Gyan Residency’ at EDEN Amphitheatre, Sanepa. The performance combined Nepali folk music, Hindustani traditions, and contemporary sounds. The show celebrated International Jazz Day, marking the end of a successful festival that brought together musicians from across the globe to co-create music.
Building a Sense of Community
One of the key goals of the KatJazz Festival is to build a strong sense of community through music. Whether it’s a young student playing for the first time or an experienced artist sharing their journey, every performance adds to the festival’s story. KatJazz has become more than just a music festival; it has grown into a space for learning, connecting, and growing together.
Abhisek Bhadra, co-artistic director of KatJazz, shared his thoughts on the festival’s growth: “It started as a small dream to create space for jazz and music education in Nepal. Today, it’s grown into a global gathering—rooted in this place, but reaching far beyond.” The success of the festival is not just measured by the performances, but by the lasting impact it has on musicians, students, and the audience.
A Global Celebration of Music
The KatJazz International Music Festival has become a key entertainment event for music lovers in Nepal and around the world. It celebrates diversity, promotes women in music, and encourages cultural exchange. Every year, it brings people together to share the universal language of music. Whether through workshops, performances, or collaborations, the festival plays a major role in shaping the future of music in Nepal and beyond.
