Bozcaada Jazz Festival

Since 2017, the Bozcaada Jazz Festival has called the inspiring landscapes of Bozcaada it’s home. Being more than just a jazz festival, it offers immersive experiences through it’s unique KEŞİF program. As a founding member of the Turkey Jazz Network, which took root in 2020, and a member of the Europe Jazz Network since 2019, the festival has established itself as a significant contributor to the international jazz community. Additionally, it has recently joined to Keychange, which is a global movement dedicated to achieving gender equality and reforming the music industry. At the core of our existence lies a powerful force, one that transcends time, space, and civilizations, weaving its way through every aspect of our lives. We invite you to journey with us as we uncover the universal essence of “Play”, this year’s theme of the Bozcaada Jazz Festival.

Play is a primary category of life for everyone, from humans to animals. It’s a non-materialistic activity that exists beyond mental categories and defies association with any specific stage of civilization or worldview. Play captivates and enchants, standing outside the boundaries of ordinary life and inviting us to explore the world around us with childlike curiosity.

In today’s world, a lack of play can have severe consequences on our mental well-being. As psychologist Brian Sutton-Smith once said, “The opposite of play is not work; the opposite of play is depression.” With depression being the number one global disease, according to the World Health Organization, the role of play in our lives becomes even more crucial. Play serves as a powerful antidote to depression and a catalyst for joy and well-being.