“We are especially trying to convey the joy and energy of the hammock,” says Anna Stevens, singer and swing dancer. With Gilad Motos on piano, every day during the Jazz Festival in Van (Morbihan) they give a show in the Lemur Garden. “We make children discover what swing is, what this music is, this dance, where it came from, what its properties are, and how it is constructed,” Anna Stevens says. This musical movement took off in the mid-1920s in the United States after its birth from an encounter between traditional African rhythms and melodies from Europe.
For just under an hour, the two artists make us discover their world of music while teaching us things. “We try to find a balance between historical content and fun”, Anna Stevens adds. The family audience is invited to dance, sing and clap their hands.
The little ones seem happy, and the parents and grandparents too. “I thought it was great”Says Pierre who came with his daughter, “It’s music that I find quite accessible to children and there are very few jazz, blues or even rock performances in hours that kids can access! I also find the mix of music and dance, it’s great for them.”
Obviously, the show isn’t just for kids.“Even if you are already fond of jazz, you can come and listen to the music and have a great time”Anna Stevens remembers all smiles.
As a reminder, a health card and mask are mandatory to attend jazz concerts in the city.