Some of the most talented jazz artists from Turkey and throughout the world have gathered for the Akbank Jazz Festival. Both well-known and emerging musicians have used the festival as a stage to present their work and introduce their distinctive sound to the public. Ceylan Ertem, Jamie Cullum, Alfa Mist, Kokoroko, Ezra Collective, James Carter, Avishai Cohen, Jehan Barbur, Portico Quartet, and Erkan Ogur are a few of the festival's outstanding performers.
Turkish singer-songwriter Ceylan Ertem, who is renowned for her beautiful tone and stirring lyrics, enthralled the audience with her performance. Jazz pianist and singer Jamie Cullum from the UK brought his trademark vigor and showmanship to the performance. A producer and artist from London named Alfa Mist performed a fusion of jazz, hip-hop, and electronic music. Jazz groups with afrobeat influences Kokoroko and Ezra Collective, both from London, performed at the festival with their contagious rhythms and grooves. Famous American saxophonist James Carter dazzled the crowd with his spectacular performance. Israeli jazz bassist and composer Avishai Cohen displayed his own fusion of jazz and Middle Eastern influences. Turkish singer-songwriter Jehan Barbur enchanted the crowd with her folk-influenced style. The British jazz group Portico Quartet, famed for their usage of the hang drum, produced fascinating music. Last but not least, guitarist and composer Erkan Ogur from Turkey demonstrated his knowledge of jazz fusion and traditional Turkish music.
Overall, the Akbank Jazz Festival has made a name for itself as one of Turkey's best jazz events and has given national and international performers a stage on which to display their skills. Jazz music and the variety of influences that have formed the genre over the years have been celebrated at the festival. The festival features a distinctive and varied roster of performers each year, making it a must-attend occasion for jazz aficionados in Turkey and all around the world.