The Basel Jazz Orchestra with guest Yumi Ito

On the second evening of the BJO, Yumi Ito stands in for drummer Roni Kaspi with her versatile, gentle yet also incisive voice and enriches the differentiated, dense orchestral sound with her own individual magic. A rousing evening with a solid big band sound, contemporary jazz and a pinch of international flair.

• Th, 20:30 hrs

• One-time entrance fee CHF 14.– / 8.–

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• www.baseljazzorchestra.com

Elegant big band sound and balm for the soul

The renowned Brussels Jazz Orchestra captivates with its dynamic, full-bodied warmth—a sound deeply rooted in jazz tradition, yet laced with a refreshing touch of contemporary drive. Lush harmonies, brilliant precision, and an intuitive sense of timing shape a dreamlike sonic landscape that seems to float effortlessly. Award-winning trumpeter Bert Joris adds to this atmosphere with breathtakingly beautiful, lyrical solos that shine like rays of sunlight breaking through enchanting cloud formations.

• Fr and Sa, 20:30 hrs

• Entrance fee per set CHF 12.– / 8.–

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• www.brusselsjazzorchestra.com

Paul Hanmer has been a defining voice in the jazz landscape of the new South Africa since the country’s transition to democracy. His landmark 1997 album Trains to Taung — an imaginary journey to the roots of jazz in South Africa — stands as a poignant exploration of identity in a time of profound change. In December 2024, the album was reissued on vinyl.

Yet Hanmer’s music resists categorization. Classically trained, he moves effortlessly between jazz and chamber music, composing and arranging for formats ranging from tuba duos to full orchestral requiems.

His work draws on the vibrant soundscapes of the Eastern and Western Cape, weaving together traditional instruments and songs, church harmonies, carnival rhythms, the Marabi jazz of the 1920s, and the Mbaqanga (Township Jive) of the 1960s. The result is a sonic tapestry that captures the richness and complexity of South Africa’s cultural soul.

For this special summer week, Hanmer is joined by legendary trumpeter Feya Faku—himself a towering figure in the South African jazz scene. Together, they create a sound that immediately lifts the audience and carries it deep into the musical spirit of southern Africa. They are joined by bassist Fabian Gisler, whose passion for South African jazz dates back to his youth.

As the week unfolds, the trio expands to a quintet, first with the sensitive and expressive drummer Paul Amereller, then with clarinetist Robert Pickup, with whom Hanmer released the duo album Morning into Evening in 2021. The week culminates in a remarkable collaboration with a string quartet drawn from the Zurich Opera House, adding a final, resonant layer to this cross-cultural musical journey.

• zasb.unibas.ch

Piano, Horn and bass interprete the compositions by Hanmer in a sensitive way and let lots of room for interaction.

• Tu, 20:30 hrs

• One-time entrance fee CHF 14.– / 8.–

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Drummer Paul Amereller enriches the trio to a quartet and gets it grooving.

• We, 20:30 hrs

• One-time entrance fee CHF 14.– / 8.–

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Clarinetist Robert Pickup began his career in South Africa and has been collaborating with Paul Hanmer for years.

• Th, 20:30 hrs

• One-time entrance fee CHF 14.– / 8.–

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• Fr, 16:00 hrs ❘ Museum Tinguely

• Details

The quintet and string quartet create an almost orchestral sound, interwoven with chamber music pieces for string quartet and clarinet quintet.

• Fr and Sa, 20:30 hrs

• Entrance fee per set CHF 12.– / 8.–

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Poetic dance between classical, jazz, and contemporary music.

Swiss pianist Marie Krüttli creates beautiful, delicate melodies and harmonies, only to subtly yet decisively deconstruct them. She is supported by bassist Lukas Traxel and drummer Gautier Garrigue, who contribute precision and rhythmic sensitivity to ensure a flowing dynamic. Fresh and bold, the trio explores every possible aspect of interplay—sometimes with chamber-like transparency, sometimes dense and impetuous, but always with captivating intensity.

• We and Th, 20:30 hrs

• One-time entrance fee CHF 14.– / 8.–

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• www.mariekruttli.com

An elegant homage to jazz great Paul Desmond.

“Take Five” is often credited to pianist Dave Brubeck, yet it was the highly talented saxophonist Paul Desmond who composed this massive hit. For the past twenty years, Lorenz Hargassner’s quartet has been dedicated to this jazz legend, keeping the spirit of his work alive. With organic flow, focus, melodic sophistication, and a sparkling touch of contemporary spice, the band celebrates the cool jazz of that era. Hargassner’s solos are restrained and heartfelt, avoiding loud experiments. Their new album “100” features many gems from jazz history and Desmond’s musical legacy.

• Fr and Sa, 20:30 hrs

• Entrance fee per set CHF 12.– / 8.–

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• www.lorenzhargassner.com

Jazz legends of the ’60s breathe new life into modern jazz.

George Cables, Cecil McBee, and Billy Hart—true icons of jazz—helped shape the evolution of hard bop alongside other greats of the era. Their fellow band members, all over 60 themselves, join these veterans with driving energy and impressive dedication, captivating audiences wherever they play. For 17 years, “The Cookers” have performed in this formation, delivering a powerful blend of experience and expressive strength that leaves no one unmoved. Despite their intensity, their sound resonates with elegant melody and a unique depth and beauty—echoing a bygone spirit that, remarkably, still lives on.

• We and Th, 20:30 hrs

• One-time entrance fee CHF 14.– / 8.–

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• 
  www.thecookersmusic.com

Ethereal trio music that goes under the skin.

Pianist Marc Méans’ new album “Mist” captivates with a completely unique, mystical sonic aesthetic. Flowing rhythms and dense harmonies evolve continuously, creating a floating, vibrating space of spellbinding intensity that draws the audience in like a trance. The trio plays as if from a single, pulsating source—letting the notes pour out, transforming and shaping them as one. This intimate, meditative atmosphere invites stillness and touches the listener on a profound level.

• Fr and Sa, 20:30 hrs

• Entrance fee per set CHF 12.– / 8.–

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• www.marcmean.com

Grooving jazz between virtuosity, verve, and elegance.

Award-winning Korean pianist Gee Hye Lee has expanded the sonic palette of her trio by bringing in the outstanding rising trumpeter Jakob Bänsch, known for his robust yet flexible tone, and the brilliant saxophonist Denis Gäbel, whose lyrical lines add emotional depth. Their program “Encounters” is a thrilling homage to the richness and complexity of human connection. Drawing on her personal experiences, Gee Hye Lee channels them with vibrant drive—propelled by her compelling trio and the expressive soloists. It’s a powerful musical dialogue full of emotion and energy that leaves a lasting impression.

• We and Th, 20:30 hrs

• One-time entrance fee CHF 14.– / 8.–

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• www.geehyelee.com

A poetic, intimate gem of beautiful jazz music.

Iannis Obiols’ new project Projekt “Para Mis Friends” is a heartfelt homage to all the people who have enriched the life of the sensitive pianist. With a serene, smiling calm, he weaves delicate melodies into a fine web of complex harmonies and grooving, polyphonic beats. In his music, the Catalan bandleader blends memories of his homeland and, with playful curiosity, keeps digging deeper into the roots of his emotions. The sparkling finishing touch: the crystal-clear voice of Francesca Gaza.

• Fr and Sa, 20:30 hrs

• Entrance fee per set CHF 12.– / 8.–

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• www.iannisov.bandcamp.com/album/para-mis-friends

• Fr, 16:00 hrs ❘ Museum Tinguely

• Details

Life woven into songs.

With a voice of crystalline clarity, Swedish singer Josefine Cronholm conjures a shimmering world of stories and emotion. Joined by the brilliant Torben Snekkestad, the sensitive Makiko Hirabayashi, the supple Thommy Andersson, and the outstanding Lisbeth Diers, it is no surprise that this ensemble notices the subtlest nuances, amplifies them, and gives Cronholm the space to let her poetic compositions shine. Cronholm sings of life’s luminous moments without shying away from its shadows, weaving melody and lyrics into a remarkable unity.

• We and Th, 20:30 hrs

• One-time entrance fee CHF 14.– / 8.–

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• www.josefinecronholm.com

A fascinating encounter between jazz and traditional Eritrean music

Eritrean trumpeter Hermon Mehari captivates from the very first note with his bold, expressive, and versatile playing. As he delves into his roots, he crafts a fresh and compelling sound within the context of contemporary jazz—one that resonates deeply. His latest Album “Asmara”, steeped in the harmonies, rhythms, and melodies of Eritrean music, explores the emotional complexities and tensions in his relationship with family and cultural identity. The contrast between fiery outbursts and beautifully lyrical ballads is nothing short of a delight.

• Fr and Sa, 20:30 hrs

• Entrance fee per set CHF 12.– / 8.–

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• www.hermonmehari.com

A magical evening of lush orchestral sound

The local big band never fails to captivate the bird’s eye audience with its nuanced and beautifully crafted music. As a creative hub for musicians and composers from Basel, the ensemble delivers elegant, multi-layered big band sound, contemporary jazz, and a touch of international flair. While the band occasionally invites guest artists, on this evening it shines entirely on its own, presenting both new works and freshly reimagined compositions with full creative force.

• Mo, 20:30 hrs

• One-time entrance fee CHF 14.– / 8.–

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• www.baseljazzorchestra.com

• Tu, 21:00 hrs ❘ FLOSS Festival

• Free entrance

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Grooving jazz with a touch of lyrical pop

Rising bassist Nils Kugelmann brings his “Storm” release tour to bird’s eye. With funky, infectious grooves, rich harmonies, and melodically sparkling improvisations, this outstanding trio quickly wins over the audience. Kugelmann’s music gracefully walks the line between the complexity and depth of contemporary jazz and the charm of catchy harmonies and memorable melodies—skillfully deconstructed, repeated, and varied with ease and elegance.

• We and Th, 20:30 hrs

• One-time entrance fee CHF 14.– / 8.–

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• www.nilskugelmann.com

CD release blending jazz, neoclassical music, and Candombe

The quintet led by saxophonist Baptiste Stanek weaves together the joyful essence of candomblé with contemporary jazz and classical harmonies—infused with lyrical depth and a sweet sense of longing. Drummer Paulo Almeida subtly revives the Afro-Uruguayan rhythm, while Thiago Duarte (bass) and Wes Georgiev (piano) shape it into a dense, flowing soundscape. Soloists Ben Van Gelder and Baptiste Stanek shine with a restrained brilliance and emotional intimacy that truly moves. Their debut album “Basel Smash” was released in May.

• Fr and Sa, 20:30 hrs

• Friday (em Bebbi si Jazz): Free entrance | Saturday: Entrance fee per set CHF 12.– / 8.–

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Sophisticated modern mainstream in a contemporary context

The quintet led by U.S. trumpeter Nikita Sipiagin came together at the Jazzcampus, where the musicians—then students—played and improvised daily. From this grew a beautiful bouquet of contemporary compositions, resonating deeply with a strong connection to jazz tradition. Despite their diverse cultural backgrounds, the group seeks out a shared musical language at the highest level, allowing each member the space to shine in their own unique way. Their sound ranges from expressive and gritty to energetic, smooth, and refined—marked by a maturity that is remarkable for such young musicians.

• Fr, 18:30 hrs ❘ Open Air Bühne Nadelberg 4 / Engelhof

• Free entrance

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Gentle blend of jazz, pop, and folk

Trombonist Lou Lecaudey and his debut band enchant with delicate compositions and a subtle sense for organic melodic flow. Joseph Bijon (guitar) and Romain Nassino (Rhodes) create a sense of tension and warmth around the tender trombone lines, evoking a wistful, intimate atmosphere. Bassist Vincent Girard adds thoughtful impulses, while Clément Drigon completes this precious gem with crisp yet delicate drumming. The result: a sound rich in harmony—never overpowering—and marked by respectful interplay, casting a spell that lingers long after the last note.

• Fr, 21:30 hrs ❘ Open Air Bühne Nadelberg 4 / Engelhof

• Free entrance

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• loulecaudey.wixsite.com/musician

Self-ironic blend of jazz, classical music, and Alpine folk

Jütz takes Alpine folklore for a vigorous tonal spin—twisting and turning it through harmonic detours and surprising reinterpretations. With Isa Kurz’s warm voice, lush, sensual harmonies, and subtle rhythms, the trio invites the audience into a dreamlike soundscape. The project is rooted in the dialect experimental film “Piz Regolith”, in which the band explored and musically reimagined the sounds of Alpine dialects in remote mountain villages. This experimental, improvised concert draws from the film and is further enriched by beautiful live visuals by Timo Christen.

• We, 20:30 hrs

• One-time entrance fee CHF 14.– / 8.–

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• www.juetz.com

An intoxicating journey through jazz, electronica, rock, and noise

Versatile singer and multi-instrumentalist Laure Betris captivates the audience with a searching, multilayered, and at times unsettling sound. Singing in French—her mother tongue—and Chaldean, the language of her Iraqi father, she deepens the music’s dark, magical atmosphere. Her work explores themes of memory, exile, loss, and transformation, seamlessly blending visual art and dance into her performance. In the second set, drummer and vocalist Yann Hunziker joins with driving beats, intensifying this powerful sonic experience.

• We, 21:45 hrs

• One-time entrance fee CHF 14.– / 8.–

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• www.laurebetris.com

A gripping fusion of jazz, hip hop, rock, and blues

Logan Richardson’s “Blues People” resonates with lyrical depth and a raw, searching intensity that stirs the soul. Rooted in the African American legacy of work songs and the blues—foundational elements that continue to shape jazz—the music fuses this heritage with a forward-driving, contemporary energy. The result is a sound of striking, breathtaking beauty that envelops the audience in a powerful and emotionally charged atmosphere.

• Th, 20:30 hrs

• One-time entrance fee CHF 14.– / 8.–

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Enchanting encounter of jazz, flamenco, and Catalan folk music

The new album “ALÉ - Iberian Chants” by the sensitive bassist Manel Fortià captivates with a poetic and magical dialogue between Iberian traditional music and jazz. The sound pays tribute to the free songs and work songs from both the north and south of the peninsula, vividly conveying the deep cultural ties of the Iberian Peninsula. Pere Martínez’s passionate, warm vocals perfectly complement Alba Caretas’s gentle, soothing voice—who also invites listeners to dream with her lyrical trumpet playing.

• Fr and Sa, 20:30 hrs

• Entrance fee per set CHF 12.– / 8.–

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• www.manelfortia.com

Melodic modern jazz with refreshing elegance

Saxophonist Lennard Fiehn crafts a beautiful balance between past, present, and future with calm precision. Trumpeter Òscar Latorre shines with a radiant tone, perfectly complemented by Fiehn’s warm tenor. Together with Snejana Prodanova on lively bass and Max Liebenberg on subtle drums, the quartet transforms the energy of the moment into enchanting music deeply influenced by the greats of North American jazz. The music breathes a serenity that is both invigorating and soothing.

• We and Th, 20:30 hrs

• One-time entrance fee CHF 14.– / 8.–

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• www.soundcloud.com/user-219783979

Expressive jazz with a spicy edge

With elegant finesse, US saxophonist Nicole McCabe and her band infuse their dynamic, multifaceted sound with the inspiring energy of hard bop. McCabe’s tone—sometimes compressed and assertive, then soft and inquisitive with a beautiful, slow vibrato—captures a melodic sensitivity. The sound vibrates with depth, forward momentum, and radiant joy of life. A treat for fans of driving US jazz that honors tradition while taking it to the next level.

• Fr and Sa, 20:30 hrs

• Entrance fee per set CHF 12.– / 8.–

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• www.nicolemccabemusic.com