The message reads, in part:
“Every year, this memorable day brings together in what we may call a world jazz capital a plethora of devotees of this unique genre and gives them the joy of meeting popular musicians and hearing their favourite tunes.
It is symbolic that this year’s event is taking place in St Petersburg. Russia is rightly proud of its long list of gifted singers, composers and conductors, true masters of jazz who perform at the best of venues and win over audiences with their inimitable talent, virtuoso technique and brilliant improvisations. It is thanks to their creative energy and sincere commitment that much is being done in our country for the professional development of young musicians and for the implementation of interesting projects in international cultural cooperation. Russia’s jazz school is gaining prestige.”