A highlight of the event was the performance by a jazz ensemble under the leadership of the American Chris Byars Quintet that included Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot jazz musicians

U.S. Ambassador to Cyprus Frank C. Urbancic hosted an Independence Day reception in the garden of the Embassy Residence on May 13, 2009.

Scheduling the reception prior to the Fourth of July allowed the nearly 900 guests to enjoy the event in a cooler and more comfortable atmosphere than in years past.

The event was made possible through the generous sponsorship of several local U.S. companies and affiliates.

A highlight of the event was the performance by a jazz ensemble under the leadership of the American Chris Byars Quintet that included Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot jazz musicians participating in the bicommunal “Jazz Futures” program sponsored by the Embassy.

The goal of the “Jazz Futures” program, which began in June 2008, is to develop ties and build island-wide relationships, using music as a common language. Under the leadership of Chris Byars and the members of his ensemble, who have made multiple trips to Cyprus from New York City, the group has conducted a series of master classes, jam sessions and public concerts in venues across Cyprus.