The stage was set with ethereal blue lights and music that flows like a river. Performers danced to the romantic beats, fully engaged, sharing the joy of jazz with the audience.

Yangpu has recently embraced the people's city concept by organizing the 2024 City-Wide Jazz Festival, bringing a variety of musical performances to cultural landmarks like YOUNG Theatre and the New Jiangwan City Cultural and Sports Park. On the night of November 11, a special performance, "City Music • Beautiful Yangpu" –2024 City-Wide Jazz Festival kicked off at "Green Box" in YOUNG Theatre, bringing jazz to more people.

At this special performance, renowned Shanghai music producer and singer Li Quan, along with jazz pianist and composer Huang Jianyi, began with Billy Joel's Just the Way You Are, followed by several well-known Chinese and English songs. Young jazz bands such as SOS Band and Midnight Quartet also took to the stage, delivering performances that ranged from soulful to exuberant, earning them thunderous applause.

"The synergy between the lighting, performers, and audience was excellent, creating a great ambiance. On a weeknight like this, attending a jazz concert feels rejuvenating, infusing me with energy," said audience member Ms. Chen.

Following the special performance, "To My Dearest You", a musical concert at YOUNG Theatre's main stage, showcased a selection of famous musical numbers that span the spectrum of love – from passionate to tender, and from loss to reunion, capturing the full force of love's emotions.

Shanghai's urban DNA is intertwined with music. Since the city opened its ports in the 1840s, the Bund has evolved into a hub for shipping, finance, business, and culture. Musicians from around the world have disembarked at the Huangpu River docks, introducing themselves to Shanghai and bringing with them a diverse array of music genres, including classical and jazz. "Shanghai has a natural affinity for jazz. Playing here is a relaxed and joyful experience," said Li Quan.

The "Connection" International Community Jazz Concert, held at Yangpu's "green lung" – New Jiangwan City Cultural and Sports Park, featured artists from various countries, who performed familiar jazz tunes that invited the audience to sing along or simply immerse themselves in the tranquil melodies. The "Paris Rhythm Night" Jazz Percussion Concert at YOUNG Theatre, presented by a French band, offered a performance full of rhythmic innovation.

"The event was fantastic! To enjoy such high-caliber jazz music right nearby was not only a musical delight but also a testament to the fusion of Chinese and Western cultures. I love this atmosphere and hope for more such events in the future," said audience member Mr. Zhang.

The 2024 City-Wide Jazz Festival series includes a diverse lineup of events such as musicals, concerts, film music events, and flash mob concerts, marking Yangpu's inaugural foray into hosting a comprehensive jazz music festival. The festival is set to extend its reach to commercial districts and creative parks, allowing more people to discover and experience the charm of jazz music.