The Tijuana Jazz Society is transforming Avenida Revolución into a hub for jazz appreciation, announcing a “Listening Party” in celebration of UNESCO’s International Jazz Day. The organization, in collaboration with Jazz en las Rocas, unveiled details of the upcoming event during a press conference at Yerba Buena gallery on Boulevard Rodolfo Sánchez Taboada.
Set for Thursday, April 23rd, this year’s celebration takes an educational turn, inviting attendees to explore the rich history of jazz in Mexico through an intimate listening experience.
The evening will begin at 6:00 p.m. at AH-MUN, a forum space located on the third floor of the Museo del Taco along the iconic Avenida Revolución. Rather than a traditional concert, organizers have crafted what they call a “listening party”.
Leading the historical exploration are two notable figures in Latin America’s jazz scene: Jordi Fontanet, host of one of the region’s most popular jazz podcasts, and Adrián Barreto, a DJ and historian. Together, they will guide attendees through the evolution of jazz in Mexico before the listening session begins.
Natalia Velázquez López-Gallo, founder and director of Tijuana Jazz Society, describes the event as an opportunity to demystify the genre and welcome newcomers.
“Jazz is something very beautiful because it’s everywhere. In every project and in all the people I know, starting with the curiosity to know what it is,” Velázquez said. “We’re organizing this listening party, an immersive session where guests gather to experience jazz on vinyl records.”
She added that the goal is to make people learn more about this musical genre with interactive experiences. “We’re organizing this listening party to educate the public through a very interactive activity where people can listen and, at the end, also have fun.”
The celebration connects Tijuana to a global movement, as International Jazz Day brings together more than 190 countries in recognition of the genre’s role in promoting peace and cultural dialogue.
“It is something very beautiful to be able to be part of those 190 countries celebrating this day,” Velázquez added. “Anyone who wants to organize an activity can register and participate for free.”
Raquel Stabinsky, lifetime advisor for the Tijuana Tourism and Conventions Committee (Cotuco), attended the press conference and emphasized the deep roots jazz has in the city’s identity. She recalled how Herb Alpert & The Tijuana Brass brought international attention to Tijuana’s musical spirit.
“Tijuana became famous with Herb Alpert & The Tijuana Brass, a group and an artist who have traveled the world with their art and talent,” Stabinsky reflected. “That projected us as a musical Tijuana, a joyful Tijuana.”
Organizers have designed the event primarily for young people and adults curious about Mexican jazz or seeking a distinctive cultural experience in the city.
Tickets are priced at $290 pesos ($16.50 USD), which includes a 50% discount on admission to the Taco Museum. Advance tickets are available through BoletoFast and the Tijuana Jazz Society’s official channels, though registration will also be possible on the day of the event.
Looking ahead, Velázquez announced plans for an upcoming masterclass aimed at jazz musicians and artists. The session will focus on practical skills for career development, including how to create professional EPKs and tools for managing their own performances.
