Goa’s jazz revival: A new generation finds its groove

Jazz demands a certain depth of understanding, but today it’s being fused with other genres in exciting ways. That’s what draws younger musicians. At some point, anyone serious about music encounters a jazz standard — and that often sparks deeper curiosity - Guitarist Aldrich Rodrigues

Long before Goa earned its reputation as India’s beach capital, its air carried the smooth, syncopated sounds of swing and bebop. For decades, Goan musicians were at the forefront of Western music in Bollywood, particularly jazz. Though shifting musical trends once pushed the genre into the background, jazz is now striking a fresh chord in the state — this time led by a new generation.

Today, young Goan musicians are reclaiming jazz, blending its rich traditions with contemporary influences. This International Jazz Day, the genre is shedding its “old-school” label and re-emerging as a vibrant, modern expression of cool.

ON A MUSICAL NOTE

For Jonathan Furtado, a jazz bassist and sound engineer, the turning point came during a late-night listen. Hearing Autumn Leaves by Shirley Scott left a lasting impression. “It made me feel kind of blue, but in a way that moved my body and soul,” he recalls. “I knew I had to take giant steps into the misty world of jazz. It wasn’t easy at first, but I followed my instinct.” Guitarist Aldrich Rodrigues says that the genre, while still niche, is evolving alongside its audience. “Jazz demands a certain depth of understanding, but today it’s being fused with other genres in exciting ways. That’s what draws younger musicians. At some point, anyone serious about music encounters a jazz standard — and that often sparks deeper curiosity.”

TEACH THEM YOUNG

For vocalist and violinist Swizel Costa, nurturing that curiosity early is key. As a music teacher, she introduces children to jazz through its harmonies and improvisational nature. “Exposure to improvisation at a young age is incredibly beneficial,” she explains, adding, “Both classical and jazz music contribute immensely to a student’s creativity and confidence. Jazz, in particular, encourages freedom of expression, which is essential for any musician.”

MORE VENUES, MORE EXPOSURE

As with any art form, growth depends on opportunity. Fortunately, Goa’s jazz scene is seeing increased support through festivals, venues and institutions. Drummer Pratamesh Chari of JazzMatazz highlights the role of platforms such as Kala Academy, Jazz Goa, and festivals like the Goa International Jazz Live Festival, Jazz India Circuit and the Serendipity Arts Festival: “There’s definitely more attention on jazz now. But the next step is consistency — making jazz a regular part of the cultural landscape.” Music curator and architect Vinesh Iyer has witnessed this shift firsthand. “There’s a noticeable change in both the number and diversity of people attending jazz events,” he notes. “The audience is growing and their enthusiasm is encouraging for artists. The more events we host, the more it fuels the ecosystem,” he adds.

“In recent years, more jazz musicians have been performing, and an increasing number of venues, from restaurants and cafés to music festivals are now open to hosting jazz. However, greater awareness still needs to be built, starting with music tutors and families,” says Jeshurun D’Cruz, drummer from Merces.

Jazz in Goa is no longer just a relic of the past — it’s a living, evolving art form. With passionate musicians, supportive platforms, and an increasingly receptive audience, the genre is finding new life. What was once considered “grandfather’s music” is now being redefined by youth who are not only preserving its legacy but also shaping its future. In Goa today, jazz isn’t just making a comeback — it’s composing an entirely new story.