Riviera Maya Jazz Festival 2023: A Musical Odyssey Under the Stars

Advertisement / Publicité

This page is also available in / Cette page est également disponible en: Francais (French)

The 2023 Riviera Maya Jazz Festival was a convergence of expert musicians from diverse genres such as Jazz, Latin, Rock, Funk, and Rhythm & Blues. Each wielded their instruments with a virtuosity that propelled the audience to unparalleled heights and, rather surreally, it was entirely free.

Imagine Playa del Carmen, nestled in the enchanting Yucatán Peninsula—turquoise waters, a setting sun casting a golden glow on sandy shores, and rhythmic ocean waves harmonizing effortlessly with vibrant sounds of music. A full moon topped off the atmosphere during the two-day festival, elevating the experience.

This was much more than an ordinary concert: it was a musical journey into the heart of the Riviera Maya and a Mexican hospitality. Following a two-year suspension due to the pandemic, the festival made its triumphant return with a stellar lineup featuring luminaries such as Chris Botti, Iraida Noriega, Antonio Sánchez, Aguamala, Pedrito Martínez, Spanish Harlem Orchestra, and Arturo Sandoval.

The atmosphere was electric, with everyone embracing a sense of camaraderie, dancing and celebrating life as if they were longtime friends. The musicians themselves were not just performers on stage, they were integral parts of a collective journey, as audience members were invited to discover the wide breadth of musical talent on offer. At one point, the crowd was moved to sing along to Snarky Puppy’s instrumental tracks, while during another performance Pedrito Martínez invited people to come on stage and dance. These unexpected displays of community added an infectious spontaneity to the event.

The openness and warmth of the audience inspired Chris Botti to break convention as well. He and violinist Caroline Campbell ventured downstage and onto the beach, serenading the audience under a moonlit sky. They played Emmanuel and the theme-song for Cinema Paradiso. Botti’s trumpet notes created an intimate jazz-club atmosphere on the vast beach, transforming an outdoor music festival into a personal, unforgettable experience.

Beyond the music, the Riviera Maya Jazz Festival offered a gateway to Mexican friendly hospitality and culinary delights. The tantalizing aromas of chilies, tortillas, moles, and local delicacies enhanced the festival experience.

The 20th edition of the Riviera Maya Jazz Festival was a journey into the heart of Latin, rock, and jazz music; a celebration of cultural fusion; and a feast for the senses. By offering free admission, it served as something of a democratic ode to music, inviting everyone to join in the rhythm, and party with the artists. The event, held on Nov. 24 and 25 in 2023, inspired appreciation for the open-air jazz festival format. Audiences from far and wide should eagerly await the announcement of the 2024 lineup.