Richard Bona’s grandfather made him his first balafon, sparking his lifelong journey in music. Since then, the exceptional bassist has left his native Cameroon and traveled the globe, collaborating with some of the biggest names in the industry, from Chaka Khan to Quincy Jones and Bobby McFerrin. With his distinctive sound, extraordinary technique, and captivating voice, the versatile composer and instrumentalist has built an international reputation and earned a Grammy Award for Best Contemporary Jazz Album. Blending Afrobeat, Afropop, and Latin influences, his music remains firmly rooted in his African origins while generously embracing a wide array of global sounds.

After sharing a few songs with drummer Manu Katché during a memorable 2023 concert under the Chapiteau, the Parisian singer with a velvety voice returns to perform tracks from her new album on the same stage. In La femme aux yeux de sel (The Woman with Salt Eyes), Gabi Hartmann invites us into an initiatory story exploring universal themes of innocence, disillusionment, and the search for serenity. Drawing inspiration from artists such as Miriam Makeba and Mercedes Sosa, the singer-songwriter and guitarist pays tribute to Latin America and influential women, crafting a dreamlike, melancholic world where folk, jazz, and pop seamlessly intertwine.

A rising star of Swiss jazz, pianist Manon Mullener was born in Fribourg and trained in Cuba before continuing her studies at the Bern University of the Arts. After first performing in a trio with fellow pianist Cesar Correa and percussionist David Stauffacher, she formed her quintet in 2022, releasing an album the following year, most recently followed by Stories. Blending modern jazz with Latin influences, her compositions tell stories of singular lives and take listeners on a journey from Havana to New York, with a detour through the folklore of Fribourg. Known across European stages for her energy, expressive playing, and the collective groove of her ensemble, she makes her debut in the Cully Jazz main line-up, opening the second Friday evening with her band.