Jazz is one of the most popular genres of music in the world. With a loyal following of fans, musicians and connoisseurs, it draws crowds wherever it’s played.

Renowned jazz artists Al di Meola, Antonio Sanchez and Carlo Muscat will be strutting their instruments at the Malta Jazz Festival at Ta’ Liesse in Valletta this evening.

A bona fide guitar hero, di Meola has also been recognised over the past 30 years as a prolific composer and respected artist with over 20 recordings as a leader. His creative output to date is staggering.

He will be joined by Peo Alfonsi (guitar) and Peter Kaszas  (drums, percussion).

Four-time Grammy Award winner Antonio Sanchez is considered by many critics and musicians alike as one of the most prominent drummers, bandleaders and composers of his generation.

He sports an impeccable musical bloodline. He trained at Boston’s Berklee College of Music, as well as the New England Conservatory of Music, as a pianist. This was accompanied by lessons in drumming which eventually won out over the piano. One can still hear its influence – his drumming is no less melodic, demonstrating a range of dynamics and tones under his hands.

He will be joined by Thana Alexa (vocals), Seamus Blake (sax), John Escreet (piano) and Matt Brewer (bass).

Saxophonist Carlo Muscat has always insisted that his musical awakening is an ongoing process. So much so that further to releasing his first solo album, The Sound Catalogues Vol. 1 about three years ago, he went on to explore new ventures and collaborations, a number of which would, both directly and indirectly, lead to the formation of the line-up he eventually put together for his latest album, Explorations,  released last year with a live performance in St Julian’s.

He will be joined by Burak Bedikyan (piano).

The closing night of the festival is being held at Ta’ Liesse today from 8pm till midnight. For more information and to buy tickets, visit www.maltajazzfestival.org.