Saxophonist Branford Marsalis, singer Dianne Reeves, and jazz pianists Michel Camilo and Sullivan Fortner will perform at the 58th Festival de Jazz Barcelona, which runs from April 18 to November 28 across various city venues. The festival also announced composer and arranger Maria Schneider among its latest confirmed artists, adding to an already star-studded line-up.
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These acclaimed international musicians join an impressive roster of previously announced headliners. These include singer Van Morrison, guitarist Pat Metheny, and musician Marcus Miller. Catalan artists will also feature prominently during the festival. These include singer Ramon Mirabet, trumpeter and saxophonist Andrea Motis, and the Barcelona Jazz Orchestra. The festival opens on April 18 with a concert by the Marco Mezquida Trio. Performances will take place at major Barcelona venues, including L’Auditori, Palau de la Música Catalana, Paral·lel 62, and Gran Teatre del Liceu. These diverse locations offer residents and tourists multiple opportunities to experience world-class jazz.
This year’s programme also marks the 20th anniversary of the Sant Andreu Jazz Band. Catalan musician Joan Chamorro founded the band. The festival will award the Sant Andreu Jazz Band its Gold Medal for this significant milestone. Additionally, the festival offers a diverse range of concert formats and collaborations. Marcus Miller will present his ‘We Want Miles!’ show. Maria Schneider will perform with the Clasijazz Big Band. Andrea Motis and Yamandu Costa will also present a duo performance.
Free International Jazz Day Celebration
Beyond ticketed shows, the festival will host the Barcelona International Jazz Day on April 26. This free, day-long celebration of jazz will take place at Barcelona’s Passeig de Gràcia. It features open-access concerts and performances for all residents and visitors. This initiative provides an accessible way for the community to engage with jazz music. The festival aims to balance international stars with local talent. It also includes masterclasses, talks, and artist encounters, fostering musical education and appreciation.
Commemorating Six Decades of Jazz
The 2026 edition of the festival will inaugurate a special three-year cycle. This cycle marks 60 years since the festival’s first concert in 1966. The American band Dave Brubeck Quartet opened that inaugural event. Over the decades, the Festival de Jazz Barcelona has become a world-renowned platform. Barcelona-based organisation Ibercàmera will also pay tribute to the festival. They will present a concert by the Orpheus Chamber Orchestra. Branford Marsalis will feature as a soloist in this special performance. Tickets are currently on sale for events throughout the spring, summer, and autumn, offering jazz fans a wide spectrum of styles and settings.
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Originally published by Catalan News (English). Read original article.
