Smalls Music Fest Celebrates International Jazz Day April 30

International Jazz Day at Smalls 2025

Acclaimed Bangkok live-music venue Smalls will celebrate International Jazz Day April 30 with a three-band music fest showing off the best Thailandโ€™s young jazz musicians.

The event will showcase three bands: Basic Jazz, Coffee Break Jazz and Enigma Ray, highlighting jazz as a global language of unity and cultural dialogue on the UNESCO-organized International Jazz Day.

International Jazz Day, designated by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization in November 2011, is held annually to recognize jazz music’s diplomatic role in promoting peace and intercultural understanding.

The Smalls International Jazz Day Music Fest begin at 9 p.m., with entry only 500 baht.

Basic Jazz

Launched at Smalls in Suan Phlu on February 2023, Basic Jazz offers contemporary interpretations of classics by Charlie Parker, Miles Davis, Wayne Shorter, and others.

Band leader and drummer Francesco Tortora said the concept emerged from brainstorming with Smalls owner and legendary Bangkok bar boss David Jacobson โ€“ the man who brought Q Bar to live two decades ago โ€“ focusing on creativity and improvisation.

The lineup includes saxophonist Mint Passakorn, keyboardist Roong, double bassist Veerachit โ€œAeโ€ Tangsamatr, and drummer Tor.

Coffee Break Jazz

Coffee Break Jazz, active since 2010, blends traditional jazz with fusion elements. The band’s latest project, “Road Trip,” features original groove-focused compositions.

Band members include saxophonist Ratthakhet “Kate” Chuaisombun, guitarist Panai “Pop” Imjai, electric bassist Phoowich “Dew” Tawasinchanadech, and drummer Meesilp “Wan” Poonsawad.

Enigma Ray

Enigma Ray, a modern jazz quartet that debuted at Smalls as simply โ€œEnigmaโ€, is recognized for complex compositions and innovative approaches blending contemporary styles with jazz traditions.

The group includes saxophonist Rangsiman Potha, pianist Panuwat Tangyuenyong, bassist Sirapop Saichot, and drummer Sahasawat Sriwichai.

About International Jazz Day

International Jazz Day is chaired by UNESCO Director-General Audrey Azoulay and renowned jazz pianist Herbie Hancock, who serves as UNESCO Ambassador for Intercultural Dialogue.

Held annually on April 30, the event promotes jazz’s role in fostering peace, equality, freedom of expression, and respect for human rights globally.

The United Nations General Assembly formally recognized International Jazz Day in December 2011, placing it officially on UNESCO and U.N. calendars.