European Jazz Festival Kicks Off in İzmir on March 5
European Jazz Festival kicks off in İzmir on March 5
İzmir is ready to swing as the 33rd European Jazz Festival takes center stage from March 5 to 17, 2026. Organized by the İzmir Foundation for Culture and Arts (İKSEV) with the support of the İzmir Municipality and cultural institutes and consulates from across Europe, the festival promises a rich lineup of concerts, masterclasses, lectures, and film screenings.
🎵 Concert & workshop venues
Ahmed Adnan Saygun Cultural Center — main concert hall
İzmir Museum of Music and Musical Instruments (MÜZİKSEV) — workshops & masterclasses
✨ Festival highlights
- March 5 The festival opens with a performance by the renowned trumpet quartet Fabrizio Bosso.
- March 7 Küspert and Kollegen will present live jazz accompanying a silent film.
- March 9 One of Turkey’s leading jazz vocalists, Sibel Köse, takes the stage with her ensemble.
- March 11 Knobil, led by Luisa Knobil, delivers a vibrant jazz performance.
🎤 Talks, film & more
🎸 musical talks Attendees can also enjoy musical talks on famous jazz guitarists, a special session with music critic Ümit Tunçay, and the documentary screening of “Busking”.
🎉 grand finale – March 17 The festival concludes on March 17 with a concert by pianist and composer Jef Giancillo.
“Whether you’re a jazz aficionado or simply curious, İzmir’s European Jazz Festival offers an unforgettable musical journey.” — İKSEV artistic team
ℹ️ festival quick facts (neutral zone)
dates : 2026-03-05 – 2026-03-17
venues : AASS Cultural Center + MÜZİKSEV
open : free & ticketed events (check İKSEV box offices)
Whether you’re a jazz aficionado or simply curious, İzmir’s European Jazz Festival offers an unforgettable musical journey — from the opening trumpet of Fabrizio Bosso to the closing piano of Jef Giancillo, seventeen days of pure jazz energy.
⚠️ limited capacity for masterclasses – advance registration recommended at MÜZİKSEV.
