Martinique Jazz Festival Set for Nov. 26 thru Dec. 6

The Caribbean’s longest-running jazz festival, the Martinique Jazz Festival, will be held Nov. 26 to Dec. 6. The festival, which dates back to 1983, has long provided a showcase for local and international artists to share their talents with music lovers from all corners of the globe.

This year a solid line-up of musicians are set to combine with interactive master classes, film screenings and exhibits. Among the international artists scheduled to perform are Elizabeth Kontomanou (France), the Kenny Barron Trio (U.S.), and Lionel Loueke (Benin/U.S.).

A highlight of the event will be the performance of steel pan master Andy Narell (U.S.), who will team with calypso legend Relator (Trinidad) to perform innovative “PanJazz” selections from their new album, “University of Calypso.”

Martinique Jazz Festival performances will be held primarily at L’Atrium, in the capital city, Fort-de-France, with additional concerts and events held in the towns of Sainte Anne, Sainte Marie, Lamentin, Riviere Salee, Sainte Luce and the La Pagerie Museum in Trois-Ilets, childhood home of Empress Josephine.