JazzAscona Returns with lots of New Orleans-Jazz

The connection to New Orleans—which has been at the heart of the artistic project for years—is obvious right from the opening, which highlights the collective spirit of the parades: the Louisiana State University Brass Band, led by Babydoll Chyna Doll, brings that warm, communal sound that is both a ritual and a celebration (6:15 p.m., parade – lakefront).

Right from the start, some of Louisiana’s most iconic artists take the stage. Sean Ardoin (8:00 p.m., New Orleans Stage), one of the leading figures in contemporary zydeco, brings an energy that is direct and deeply rooted in Creole tradition, seamlessly blending nostalgia with stage presence. 

Joining him are NOJO5 (8:30 p.m., Elvezia Stage), featuring musicians associated with the New Orleans Jazz Orchestra: tight, luminous Jazz that moves effortlessly between formal precision and rhythmic drive.

In the same spirit, but with a different expressive edge, Angelique’s voice (9:45 p.m., Stage Seven), making her debut in Ascona: a round voice, an intense presence, and a repertoire that spans soul and Jazz with remarkable musical freedom. 

Rounding out the lineup is the Jungle Jazz Band (9:30 p.m., Blue LLama Terrace), which takes listeners back to the roots of Jazz with a direct, deliberately raw sound, true to the spirit of the early Jazz bands.

Finally, as part of the “Acoustic Town” section, a recommendation for all gypsy Jazz lovers: the excellent String Duet of Love (6:30 p.m. at Sialia Gourmet), featuring Italian violinist Federico Zaltron and French guitarist Duved Dunayevsky, considered by many to be the spiritual heir to Django Reinhardt. 

An opening that immediately sets the tone for the festival: New Orleans as a living reference point, bridging tradition and modernity.

Our picks for you

• Opening Parade Louisiana State University Brass Band feat. Chyna Doll (18:15, Autosilo – lungolago) 

• String Duet of Love (18:30 c/o Sialia Gourmet)

• Sean Ardoin Quintet (20:00, Stage New Orleans) 

• NOJO5 (20:30, Stage Elvezia) 

• The Jungle Jazz Band (21:30, Blue LLama Terrace) 

• Angelique (21:45, Stage Seven)