The iconic jazz pianist Herbie Hancock was designated UNESCO Goodwill Ambassador for Intercultural Dialogue in July 2011, in recognition of his profound dedication to the promotion of peace through dialogue, culture and the arts.

The 14-time Grammy-Award winner Herbie Hancock was a member of the Miles Davis Quintet that pioneered a more expansive jazz sound. Through this American jazz band led by Miles Davis, he developed new approaches on his own recordings, followed by his work such as in his album “Head-Hunters” that combines electric jazz with funk and rock in an innovative style that continues to influence contemporary music to this day. 

As Chairman of the Thelonious Monk Institute of Jazz, he promotes musical education and jazz by bringing together young students and renowned jazz artists.

In his capacity as a UNESCO Goodwill Ambassador, Herbie Hancock has contributed to the creation of the International Jazz Day in order to highlight jazz and its role of uniting people all around the world. International Jazz Day is celebrated annually on 30 April in more than 190 countries: this major event brings together communities, schools, artists, historians, academics and jazz enthusiasts to raise awareness of the need for intercultural dialogue.

In addition, he participated to the launch of 40^th anniversary Celebration of the World Heritage Convention held at UNESCO Headquarters in January 2012.