• 2002: The Inaugural Note

    2002: The Inaugural Note

    • The Suriname Jazz Festival took its first breath with a stellar lineup including our Jazz diva Denise Jannah and the enchanting sounds of Pantar from Trinidad & Tobago.
    • Prof. Li Fo Sjoe, the Suriname Nestor, graced the opening with his saxophone.

  • 2003: Trio Magic

    2003: Trio Magic

    • A captivating trio emerged with Henry Wijnhard on drums, Ernst Glerum on bass, and Ferial Karamat Ali on piano.

  • 2004: Big Band Debut

    2004: Big Band Debut

    • The festival witnessed its first Big Band performance with our own Surinamese formation of 17 musicians directed by Herman Snijders.
    • Pablo Nahar’s band from the Netherlands, accompanied by the NAKS drummers, delivered an outstanding performance.

  • 2005: International Crescendo

    2005: International Crescendo

    • Big Band Ribe from Denmark, led by Thomas Hauger, filled the air with Danish jazz.
    • Saskia Laroo Band and a formation from Bonaire, featuring Guus Gerritsen, added to the international melody.

  • 2006: Year of the Dogla’s

    2006: Year of the Dogla’s

    • The Military Big Band, Question Mark with Bud Gaddum, and Mazous with Marcel Balsemhof enchanted in the year of the Dogla’s.

  • 2007: Steel Jazz Resonance

    2007: Steel Jazz Resonance

    • A celebration of Steel Jazz featured performances by BIGA and Konkie Hallmeyer from Curacao.
    • The steelpan battle on the Torarica Pier became a highlight, along with the Laurence Gudge band.

  • 2009: Jazz Elegance

    2009: Jazz Elegance

    • Mike del Ferro graced the stage, delivering excellent jazz with superb vocals, complemented by the rhythms of Liesbeth Peroti.

  • 2011: Orchestral Echoes

    2011: Orchestral Echoes

    • Jean Durham’s Orchestra, a formation of 10 musicians, filled the Royal Torarica Ballroom with harmonious jazz.
    • Master Hein van der Gaag, accompanied by Peter Bjornild and Roberto Halifi, offered fabulous jazz.

  • 2012: A Global Showcase

    2012: A Global Showcase

    • Choro Livre (Brasil), Downtown Dixie (The Netherlands), Metta Quintet (USA), Sonny Khoeblal & Roy Louis Band (Suriname + International guests) created a spectacular festival.

  • 2013: Diverse Vibrations

    2013: Diverse Vibrations

    • The 11th Suriname Jazz Festival spanned five locations, featuring events like Jazz & Wine, Youth Day, and Parbo Jazz.
    • International collaborations and jam sessions marked a memorable closing.