Prague is not the only cradle of culture in the Czech Republic. Several festivals have a long tradition in many cities all over the country and jazz festivals are some of the most eagerly anticipated every year. Two quite exceptional ones await us soon this year, these being the AghaRTA Prague Jazz Festival and JazzFest Brno.

The jubilee 20th year of the AghaRTA Prague Jazz Festival, which is taking place from 23 February to 23 May, is marked by big names. The most notable person taking part is without a doubt Maceo Parker, the American singer and saxophonist, who will be performing on 15 March in Lucerna Music Bar. Another important personality who is closely linked with the festival is the musician and bassist Richard Bona. This jubilee year would not be the same without him. Fans will be able to enjoy his concert on 4 May in the intimate surroundings of the Hybernia Theatre. Apart from this, the festival for example offers performances by the Steve Lukhather Band and Soft Machine.

JazzFest Brno is celebrating its no-less-important tenth year. The festival promises a wealth of concerts, jam sessions and workshops, which will be kicked off by none other than the legendary Bobby McFerrin with two concerts on 29 and 30 March due to the huge interest. The festival lasts until 21 April and the programme also includes concerts by the Dimitry Baevsky Quartet, the Carla Cook Quartet and the Mike Stern Band.

But jazz days in the Czech Republic are far from over with these festivals. Fans can look forward to a whole summer packed with jazz. From the many festivals that await us, it is certainly worth mentioning Bohemia Jazz Fest, Jazz Without Borders and the multi-genre festival, Colours of Ostrava.