A gripping blend of jazz, rock, punk, and noise.

Guitarist Dave Gisler has developed a compelling and multifaceted musical language that ranges from sophisticated solos to free-form outbursts, and he explores the possibilities of genre-bending music in his own unique way. His sound is at times raw and expressive, then again conciliatory, lyrical, and gentle. Raffaele Bossard blends in organically with precise bass lines, and Lionel Friedli captivates with a smooth rhythmic foundation. The music exudes a natural dynamism within a dense, captivating atmosphere. The latest album, “The Flying Mega Doghouse” was released last October on Intakt Records.

• We and Th, 20:30 hrs

• One-time entrance fee CHF 16– / 10.–

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• www.davegisler.ch

Rousing swing with a dash of self-deprecating humor.

The six passionate musicians of The Sheiks instantly transport the audience back to the Roaring Twenties—their music is fresh, loud, groovy, and humorous. With their unique energy and refreshing ease, they get every hip swaying and even the most tired feet tapping. Inspired by early jazz, the band delights with timeless hits and catchy original compositions. Warning: their exuberant zest for life is highly contagious and is sure to put a smile on your face. Let’s celebrate!

• Fr, 18:30 hrs ❘ Open Air Bühne Engelhof

• Free entrance

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• www.thesheiks.ch

Contemporary jazz free of all conventions.

With only saxophones, bass, and drums, bassist Alessandro Fongaro seeks out melodic and rhythmic challenges in “Pietre.” His music stutters, collapses, and surges forward—embedded in touching stories that manifest themselves intensely yet sensitively. Saxophonists Nicoló Ricci and Jesse Schilderink build to impressive heights of expressiveness, throwing unexpected musical cues back and forth, carried by a tightly woven rhythmic tapestry woven by Fongaro’s versatile bass and Sun-Mi Hong’s virtuoso drums. A raw, urgent, and deeply expressive sound. Fongaro released the eponymous album on Bandcamp in 2024.

• Fr, 20:30 hrs

• Free entrance

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• www.alessandrofongaro.bandcamp.com

Immerse yourself in jazz, dream pop, and folk-inspired storytelling.

Singer Debora Monfregola, with Italian roots, captivates from the very first note with her ethereal music, which floats in a magical world of warm vocals, wistful harmonies (Catherine Tang), and funky beats (rhythm section: Daniel Somaroo and Max Liebenberg). Her voice is dreamy, demanding, childlike, and exhilarating all at once. Horn players Charlotte Lang and Lukas Reinert add even more depth and structure to the melancholic atmosphere and also shine in their solos. A concert full of magic and poetry.

• Fr, 21:30 hrs ❘ Open Air Bühne Engelhof

• Free entrance

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• www.debmusica.com

Contemporary jazz free of all conventions.

With only saxophones, bass, and drums, bassist Alessandro Fongaro seeks out melodic and rhythmic challenges in “Pietre.” His music stutters, collapses, and surges forward—embedded in touching stories that manifest themselves intensely yet sensitively. Saxophonists Nicoló Ricci and Jesse Schilderink build to impressive heights of expressiveness, throwing unexpected musical cues back and forth, carried by a tightly woven rhythmic tapestry woven by Fongaro’s versatile bass and Sun-Mi Hong’s virtuoso drums. A raw, urgent, and deeply expressive sound. Fongaro released the eponymous album on Bandcamp in 2024.

• Sa, 20:30 hrs

• Entrance fee per set CHF 14.– / 10.–

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• www.alessandrofongaro.bandcamp.com

An amalgam of post-bop, heavy metal elements, and meditative soundscapes.

Using only guitar, bass, and drums, Alessio Cazzetta creates a dense, versatile, and idiosyncratic musical universe that captivates. With melodic solos that always follow a common thread and are self-contained, Thiago Duarte’s nimble bass lines, and Diego Piñera’s virtuoso rhythmic foundation, he creates a transcendental space that vibrates with creativity and creative potential. A beautiful concert of delicate tones that can spread far and wide. Cazzetta’s latest album, EMAHO (from the Tibetan e-ma-ho — “how wonderful”), will be released this November on Unit Records.

• We, 20:30 hrs

• One-time entrance fee CHF 16– / 10.–

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• www.alessiocazzetta.com

The BJO performs music by Rafael Karlen.

Our local big band never fails to thrill the audience with its diverse music. This Thursday, it showcases its own concentrated creative energy with new pieces by saxophonist Rafael Karlen. We can look forward to a journey through rich, expressive, and powerful musical worlds and finely orchestrated compositions that bring out the full range of the big band’s sound

• Th, 20:30 hrs

• One-time entrance fee CHF 16– / 10.–

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• www.baseljazzorchestra.com

A fireworks display of virtuosity and impressionistic sonority.

Drummer Jonas Sorgenfrei weaves enchanting, dreamy sounds into a melancholic, intense atmosphere, through which saxophonist Florian Trübsbach meanders with a clear, delicate tone and playful solos. Pianist Rainer Böhm and guitarist Philipp Brämswig unfold a dazzling harmony in their tightly interwoven playing, while bassist Matthias Akeo Nowak provides the unifying foundation. Finally, Sorgenfrei lets this gem take flight on his fluid, precise rhythmic tapestry. Music that floats through the room and stretches time. In January 2026, the new album “Cracks In The Silence” was released on Unit Records.

• Fr and Sa, 20:30 hrs

• Entrance fee per set CHF 14.– / 10.–

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• www.jonassorgenfrei.com

In search of the balance between improvisation and control.

Born and raised in Cape Town, trumpeter Robin Fassie is an important voice among the younger jazz musicians in South Africa. He is known for shaping a highly emotional sound, equally brilliant and warm. Fassie seeks to create a deeper connection with the music and his audience, creating flow in his improvisation while maintaining control. We may look forward to a rich and intimate evening exploring Fassie’s flow state.

• We, 20:30 hrs

• One-time entrance fee CHF 16– / 10.–

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• www.zasb.unibas.ch

Exploring the evolution of musical identity through technology.

Drummer Sphelelo Mazibuko has enchanted the bird’s eye audience as an excellent sideman in countless South African projects. In 2025 he finally released his debut album Faces. Now, Mazibuko extends that work by examining how musical identity evolves through technology, electronic practices, and AI. The Swiss-South African line-up explores how musicians embrace new tools while preserving cultural and traditional roots and thus as contemporary musicians, collectively shape the future of jazz and improvised music.

• Th, 20:30 hrs

• One-time entrance fee CHF 16– / 10.–

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• www.zasb.unibas.ch

• Fr, 16:00 hrs ❘ Museum Tinguely

• Details

Honoring the South African jazz catalog while pushing into new, experimental territories.

Vimbs Mavimbs has been a quiet force behind the “New Wave” of South African Jazz. His ability as a sideman, to adapt to and excel in all kind of formats has made him one of the most versatile musical exports of his generation. His debut album “Late Bloomer” posits that the most profound artistic voices are those that have been allowed to simmer, absorbing decades of culture, history, and technical mastery. This project is a celebration of the “unhurried harvest” an exploration of what happens when a seasoned musician finally chooses to reveal their internal world.

• Fr, 20:30 hrs

• Entrance fee per set CHF 14.– / 10.–

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• www.vimbsmavimbs.com
  www.zasb.unibas.ch

Blending African rhythms with jazz harmony and colourful tone.

Drawing from her rich South African cultural heritage and diverse musical palette, Siyasanga Charles brings a deeply personal and inventive approach to music-making, exploring the intersection of South African rhythms, storytelling, and modern jazz language with a myriad of musica influences that have shaped her musical identity. Her compositions are layered with emotional nuance, technical brilliance, and an unmistakable spirit of innovation, reflecting both her classical training and deep connection to African musical traditions.

• Sa, 20:30 hrs

• Entrance fee per set CHF 14.– / 10.–

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• www.zasb.unibas.ch

Dense, cinematic jazz with a touch of classical and electronic music.

The award-winning Israeli pianist Shai Maestro is a driving force on the international jazz scene. His playing vibrates with sparkling energy and emotional depth, immersing the audience in a wistful, mystical world of enchantment that both moves and challenges. Contemporary jazz, cinematic soundscapes and influences from outside the genre flow together in a multifaceted manner to create a beguiling musical universe. “The Guesthouse” was released this spring on the “Believe” label.

• Tu and We, 20:30 hrs

• One-time entrance fee CHF 16– / 10.–

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• www.shaimaestro.com

Sleek modern mainstream jazz in a contemporary context.

With subtle intuition, the up-and-coming US saxophonist Nikita Sipiagin blends jazz tradition with a modern, experimental sound. He impresses with dynamic, expressive solos, whilst Eliott Knuets combines jazz guitar with a contemporary style and provides a rich harmonic backdrop. Bassist Joàn Codina provides the foundation with mature expression, whilst Genius Wesley combines a deep groove with an expressive approach. An energetic, top-class concert to look forward to!

• Th, 20:30 hrs

• One-time entrance fee CHF 16– / 10.–

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• www.nikitasipiagin.com

Sophisticated Latin jazz with depth.

The Cuban saxophonist Ariel Bringuez, a leading figure on the contemporary jazz scene, captivates from the very first note. He subtly blends his Afro-Cuban roots with the introspection of European jazz and a deeply spiritual vision. His sound is warm, lyrical and rich in nuance. With expressive clarity, his fellow musicians improvise within a precious atmosphere of emotional sensitivity and vulnerable expressiveness. Subtle precision, artistic maturity and a multi-layered rhythmic dynamism flow seamlessly into one another. With a reverent intimacy that touches the soul, Bringuez conveys the beauty of his heritage and translates it into a modern, exquisite language.

• Fr and Sa, 20:30 hrs

• Entrance fee per set CHF 14.– / 10.–

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• www.arielbringuez.com

As part of her CD release tour, Rebecca Trescher will also be performing at the bird’s eye.

The clarinettist and renowned composer effortlessly balances richness of sound with transparency, the earthy with the ethereal, tradition with modernity. Unconventional yet always coherent, she masters musical density and, through impressionistic voice leading and textures, creates an almost orchestral sound. She captivates audiences with her multifaceted, sensitive playing and warm tone. Trescher’s music is a kaleidoscope in which lines, colours, shapes, perspectives and structures shift fluidly, creating a nuanced, inner image that moves the listener. Trescher released “Changing Perspectives” in 2025 on Bandcamp.

• Tu and We, 20:30 hrs

• One-time entrance fee CHF 16– / 10.–

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• www.rebeccatrescher.com

A melodic, lyrical dialogue with depth.

The magnificent Australian singer Kristin Berardi and the outstanding Swiss bassist Lukas Traxel combine lively virtuosity, expressive storytelling and sensitive charisma in their duo to create a wonderful gem. Together, they create poetic, intimate soundscapes in which Berardi captivates with her warm, soulful voice and swinging phrasing, whilst Traxel delights with his groovy, clearly articulated playing. With their charismatic presence, the pair transport the audience into a world of subtle nuances and moving musicality.

• Th, 20:30 hrs

• One-time entrance fee CHF 16– / 10.–

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• www.kristinberardi.com

An intimate tête-à-tête of Brazilian instrumental music.

“Inevitável” arose from a desire to create modern, authentic music deeply rooted in Brazil’s traditions. The interplay between Gileno Santana’s warm, gentle trumpet and Rocho’s nimble seven-string guitar gives rise to a captivating, sophisticated yet subtle sound that captures the essence of their homeland in every musical phrase. The musicians masterfully blend popular music such as choro and Afro-Brazilian rhythms with jazz. An elegant soundscape of sensitivity and cultural identity that is deeply Brazilian yet universally accessible. The duo released “Inevitável” on Bandcamp in 2021.

• Th, 21:45 hrs

• One-time entrance fee CHF 16– / 10.–

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• www.gilenosantana.com

Poetic, experimental jazz with a quiet intensity.

Carlo Mombelli is regarded as one of South Africa’s most uncompromising bassists in the field of creative music. His evocative sonic universe is rooted in jazz whilst simultaneously embracing contemporary composition, open form and subtle sonic architectures. He draws deeply on both African musical traditions and European modernism. Within this mystical introspection, the acclaimed singer Msaki redefines contemporary South African vocal art. Her rich, dark voice is intimate and vulnerable, yet possesses a clear, powerful radiance with a fearless, emotional urgency that gets under your skin. “The World Is Dancing on the Edge of a Cliff” was released on Clap Your Hands Records.

• Fr and Sa, 20:30 hrs

• Entrance fee per set CHF 14.– / 10.–

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• www.carlomombelli.co.za

We are delighted about this wonderful new collaboration with Leonhardskirche!

The magnificent duo Laura & Luzius will kick things off in spectacular fashion with a musical experience that hovers between acoustic ambient and experimental sound art. The siblings travelled to Val Poschiavo for “Mandà in Lunga” to immerse themselves deeply in the austere magic of the Alps. Their sound is one of crystalline beauty, evoking enchanted valleys, rugged mountain landscapes and howling storms. Voice and violin become mist and shadow, whilst the organ stretches the atmosphere into darkness and the violin bow makes wind, light and water dance. The duo transform the romanticised image of the mountains into something mystical and multidimensional that lingers long in the memory. “Manda in Lunga” was released in 2025 on Ronin Rhythm Records.

• Sa, 17:00 hrs ❘ Leohnhardskirche

• Collection with a suggested amount of 15.– CHF

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• www.lauraschuler.net

A playful fusion of salon rock and chamber jazz.

This unconventional sextet led by pianist Anne Quillier captivates from the very first note with its unusual instrumentation of bassoon, violin, bass clarinet, bass, piano and modified percussion instruments. A rich, multifaceted sound – complex, yet tangible. The warm, mellow tone of the bassoon weaves its way through an experimental, groovy setting; the improvisations are bold yet melodious – always set against a rousing, pulsating rhythm. A wonderful opportunity to escape reality at the very highest musical level. “Argot Lunaire” was released this spring on Collectif Pince-Oreilles.

• Tu and We, 20:30 hrs

• One-time entrance fee CHF 16– / 10.–

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Captivating, lively modern mainstream jazz.

Tobias Haug captivates with a playful, distinguished, traditional jazz style, which he transforms fresh and intelligently into a contemporary context. He improvises lyrically and thoughtfully, whilst trumpeter Jakob Bänsch complements him subtly with catchy melodies. The music features clear structures and impresses with its personal charisma. A real treat for all fans of varied, multi-layered Latin jazz and swing. The outstanding rhythm section supports the two soloists with precision and a distinguished groove. Haug released his latest album, “Awakening”, on Bandcamp in 2023.

• Th, 20:30 hrs

• One-time entrance fee CHF 16– / 10.–

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• www.tobias-haug.com

Subtle understatement in an ethereal, focused atmosphere.

A band made up of four brothers – a blessing or a curse? Probably both. Despite family disagreements, their collaboration spanning over 20 years has borne beautiful, dazzling fruit. In the cellar of their parents’ house in Vallentuna near Stockholm, the siblings have, over the years, developed an almost telepathic, homogeneous sound that captivates and flows into organically melodic improvisations. What is striking is that all four command a strong, distinctive voice of their own, yet create a delicate whole consisting of various interwoven melodic strands, subtle harmonies and mindful rhythms. With a twinkle in the eye, one might say here – “it runs in the family”. The band released “Sista Försöket” on Bandcamp in 2025.

• Fr and Sa, 20:30 hrs

• Entrance fee per set CHF 14.– / 10.–

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• www.agnasbros.com

A rousing blend of jazz and Afro-Cuban culture!

Ever since the early days of bird’s eye, we have paid tribute to those musical roots – to which jazz also owes a great deal – with El Calderon. This Sunday, the Cuban quartet “Die Frische vom Quartier” (“the freshness from the neighborhood”) will deliver a gripping sound that radiates joie de vivre. The band presents a lively concert full of rhythm, expression and stage presence that captivates from the very first bar. With original compositions inspired by Cuban traditions, the group combines spontaneity, energy and a close connection with the audience to create an experience that goes far beyond a concert: an invitation to dance and let yourself go until the whole room is set in motion.

• Su, 18:00 hrs

• One-time entrance fee CHF 16– / 10.–

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• www.leandroirarragorri.com

Contemporary jazz with elegance and groove.

Apple Tree beautifully blends the spirit of the moment with the past, weaving the new and the old into a serene, inner energy. Silvio Cadotsch tells a story with his flexible and light-footed trombone, Gabriel Dalvit enriches the sound with an intensely resonant legato style and lyrical solos, whilst Albert Sanz captivates with his piano playing, which is as fluidly eloquent as it is idiosyncratically defiant. Dominique Girod and Jorge Rossy form the foundation of a restrained yet consistently inspiring rhythm section. Intimately and without gimmicks, the band focuses on the essence – the sound, the wealth of ideas and the gift of listening to one another as a collective.

• Tu and We, 20:30 hrs

• One-time entrance fee CHF 16– / 10.–

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• www.dominiquegirod.ch
  www.jorgerossy.com

An enchanting evening of rich orchestral sound.

The local big band never fails to delight the bird’s-eye audience with its nuanced, beautiful music. This creative hub for musicians and composers from Basel presents an elegant, multifaceted big-band sound, contemporary jazz and a touch of international flair. From time to time, the band invites a guest – on this evening, they will showcase their own concentrated creative energy with new compositions as well as further developed pieces.

• Th, 20:30 hrs

• One-time entrance fee CHF 16– / 10.–

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• www.baseljazzorchestra.com

A captivating evolution of 1960s spiritual jazz.

Although every member of this extraordinary band is a master in their own right, with expressive virtuosity and explosive creativity, the musicians are not seeking to go “higher, faster, further”. Their music moves improvisationally through sweeping arcs of tension; it grooves, sings and revels. With humility and an almost sacred fervour, they seek what unites us as human beings. Their sound breaks free from all forms and constraints, sings of revolt and rebellion, and yet is permeated by a vibrant sense of reconciliation and a gentle longing for a present, pure joy of life. “TOGETHER” brings everything to life.

• Fr and Sa, 20:30 hrs

• Entrance fee per set CHF 14.– / 10.–

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• www.baenzoester.com

A lyrical, elegant blend of contemporary jazz and South African tradition.

The award-winning Botswanan-South African pianist Bokani Dyer is an important, innovative voice on the young jazz scene. With sensitive depth of feeling, he takes the audience on a melodic journey of discovery, drawing on the multifaceted South African traditions and developing them into a fluid style that allows the roots to resonate organically, whilst his sound blossoms into fresh, groovy, contemporary jazz. Bokani improvises subtly, with a keen intuition for dynamic balance. Tim Norton and Dominic Egli provide vital impetus alongside a springy rhythmic backdrop. On these evenings, Dyer also captivates with his warm, soulful voice.

• Tu and We, 20:30 hrs

• One-time entrance fee CHF 16– / 10.–

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• www.timothynortonmusic.com
  www.lumanyanomzi.com