The December of 2022 marked a significant milestone for Kyiv’s cultural scene – the five- year anniversary of the establishment of 32JazzClub, a unique haven for jazz enthusiasts and musicians alike. This exceptional journey began within the walls of Vozdvizhenka Arts House Gallery of Contemporary Art, a brainchild of Ukrainian businessman Viktor Savkiv, who set out to create a space that would transcend conventional art and music norms.
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Vozdvizhenka Arts House Gallery of Contemporary Art was a bold venture from its inception. It emerged from the transformation of three separate garages into a white-cube style hall, enriched by a first-class cocktail bar. The gallery took its name from its house number, 32. It didn’t take long for this establishment to become synonymous with a sign that read «32» on Vozdvyzhenska Street and the warm, welcoming smile of the legendary chef-bartender, Yuri Melnychenko, behind the bar deck.
An interesting footnote in the club’s history lies in its early days. The gallery’s first exhibition, «Biryuchy,» was a nod to the famous art platform in Zaporizhzhya, Ukraine. The debut exhibition was aptly named «Let My People Go,» after Roman Minin’s iconic work depicting Louis Armstrong with a typical Ukrainian Cossack hairstyle. This symbolic choice set the stage for a continued celebration of Ukrainian artists and their unique fusion of culture and jazz.
Support for 32JazzClub’s ventures arrived in a unique form in the fall of one fateful year. The Jazz Foundation of America offered its support, marking the first time the foundation extended its reach beyond the United States. With this newfound partnership, 32JazzClub could further its dream of bringing the spotlight to the Ukrainian jazz scene, bolstering its international presence.
While the club thrived and celebrated its successes, it couldn’t escape the shadow of conflict. The ongoing war cast its long, dark shadow, presenting a new set of challenges. The cultural and informational frontlines became battlegrounds, with an online auction from the Stockholm Women’s International Jazz Festival becoming a crucial theater of operation. The painting «Peace» by Jenny Svenberg, also the official image of the festival in Stockholm, was exhibited to raise funds for the support of Ukrainian culture. Such initiatives showcased the resilience and camaraderie of the global jazz community.
None of the club’s members ever imagined finding themselves in such dire conditions, but their unwavering belief in the power of music and the human spirit sustained them. In the words of Cameroonian artist Etienne Mbappe, recently performed by the New Jazz In Kyiv Band, «Musango Na Wa» translated from the Zulu language, means «Peace be with you.» This story, like the music, continued to resonate.
Introduction to 32JazzClub
Nestled in the heart of Kyiv’s historic Podil region, 32JazzClub stands as a testament to the enduring power of music. Established in December 2017, it has quickly become a cherished musical oasis that defies conventions and enriches the city’s cultural tapestry. This journey originated from the legacy of Vozdvizhenka Arts House Gallery of Contemporary Art, founded in 2015. In a city renowned for its diverse musical genres, 32JazzClub emerged as a pioneering project that celebrates jazz’s rich history while nurturing local talent and hosting international luminaries.
A Jazz Sanctuary Amid Diversity
Kyiv boasts a rich musical tapestry encompassing classical, pop, rock, and folk genres. However, in December 2017, 32JazzClub entered the scene, ushering in a new era of creativity and sophistication. As a dedicated jazz hub, the club not only carved out its niche but also captured the attention of music enthusiasts and aficionados, defying expectations in a city where diversity reigns.
Nurturing the Local Jazz Scene
From its inception, 32JazzClub was more than just a venue; it was a sanctuary for the local jazz community. Recognizing the need to nurture and cultivate local talent, the club provided a platform for budding jazz musicians. It became a space where emerging artists could showcase their skills, experiment with new sounds, and connect with fellow enthusiasts, contributing to the evolution of the city’s jazz culture.
Inaugural Jazz Bezz Festival: A Grand Opening
The club burst onto the scene by hosting the prestigious Jazz Bezz festival in its inaugural month. This event marked the club’s commitment to establishing itself as a prominent jazz institution. The festival not only featured local talents but also welcomed international artists, setting the stage for cross-cultural exchange and musical brilliance.
A Heart of Musical Artistry
In the years that followed, 32JazzClub solidified its status as a mecca for jazz enthusiasts. It attracted both emerging and established musicians, who were drawn to its intimate yet electric ambiance. The club’s acoustics and a tmosphere provided an ideal setting for artists to present their authentic music, often debuting new singles and entire albums. The result was a dynamic interplay of creativity and expression that deeply resonated with audiences.
International Allure: Jazz Giants on Stage
The allure of 32JazzClub extended beyond the local scene, enticing renowned international musicians to grace its stage. Jazz luminaries such as Greg Osby, Tal Cohen, Omer Avital, Aaron Goldberg, Logan Richardson, and Benny Benack made their presence felt, enthralling audiences with their virtuosity and innovative compositions. Their performances not only showcased their individual brilliance but also elevated the club’s reputation as an international jazz destination.
Surviving and Thriving Through Adversity
The COVID-19 pandemic posed unprecedented challenges to the music industry, forcing many venues to shutter their doors. However, 32JazzClub demonstrated remarkable resilience, adapting to the changing landscape. By embracing virtual performances and innovative streaming methods, the club managed to remain a beacon of hope for musicians and enthusiasts alike, demonstrating the unwavering spirit of the jazz community.
Supporting the Jazz Ecosystem Amidst Crisis
As the war-torn clouds of the russian invasion cast their shadow, 32JazzClub assumed an even greater role in supporting local musicians and veteran players. Amidst the ongoing russian invasion, the club provided a platform for expression, serving as a sanctuary where musicians could channel their emotions into their art. The result was a surge of creativity, with more than 20 new albums released by various artists, reflecting their resilience and determination.
Per Aspera ad Astra
Despite ongoing war, the club has managed to organize more than 250 concerts. In addition to the usual programs for any jazz club with jazz standards and dedications to famous jazzmen, there were many original programs ranging from modern fusion to almost avant-garde. It would be important to highlight the following events: the performances of the quintet and sextet of pianist Ilya Eresko, the Ukrainian ethno-jazz program of singer Alina Zavoznaya, the modern fusion of groups of pianist Olexandr Malyshev and guitarist Mykola Zinchenko, the Ukrainian example of the European jazz mainstream from saxophonist Viktor Pavelko or double bassist Kostyantyn Ionenko, a polar example of the American jazz mainstream from trumpeter Dennis Adu and guitarist Misha Mendelenko, Ukrainian neo-soul (there is such a thing) from the Dao Park group and the Liza Bayrak band, a modern take on post-bop from a group of saxophonists Mykola Ryshkov and Grigory Parshin.
In Conclusion
32JazzClub stands as a testament to the transformative power of music in the face of adversity. From its humble beginnings hosting the Jazz Bezz festival to its role as a haven for local and international musicians, the club’s journey has been nothing short of remarkable. As it continues to defy the odds, even amidst global challenges, 32JazzClub beckons to the world, inviting enthusiasts to become part of a harmonious movement that celebrates the enduring spirit of jazz in Kyiv’s Podil region. The club has become a symbol of hope, resilience, and the unwavering power of music to unite people in challenging times.
By Dmytro Savkiv and Arthur Yampolsky
