The 12th European Jazz Conference brought the Europe Jazz Network (EJN) and the wider creative music community together in Cologne from 24 to 27 September 2026. Under the theme “Who We Are, What We Stand For”, four days of discussion, music and exchange explored shared values and responsibilities, strengthened international connections and celebrated outstanding work across the sector.

Co-organised by EJN, Stadtgarten Köln, Cologne Jazzweek and Monheim Triennale, the European Jazz Conference took place in Germany for the first time. It welcomed 440 delegates from 38 countries to discuss the future of jazz and contemporary improvised music and the role of the organisations and people who support it.

Shared Values and International Collaboration

At the heart of this year’s conference was a discussion about what the European jazz community stands for and how its values can guide its work. Through talks, discussions and encounters, participants explored social responsibility, international cooperation and the conditions in which jazz and improvised music are created, shared and presented today.

As EJN’s annual gathering, the conference provided a space for members and colleagues from across Europe and beyond to exchange experiences, learn from one another and develop new collaborations. It also brought different generations of music professionals together to reflect on the sector’s achievements and consider its future direction.

A Platform for Germany’s Creative Music Scene

The public showcase programme introduced international delegates and local audiences to the diversity of Germany’s contemporary jazz scene. Thirteen selected groups, comprising 50 musicians based in Germany, performed at venues across Cologne, including Stadtgarten, Sartory-Saal and LOFT.

The programme connected artists with music professionals from across EJN and the wider international community, creating opportunities for discovery and future collaboration. WDR 3, the conference’s media partner, will broadcast many of the showcases as part of a nationwide ARD Jazz Night in spring 2027.

Following Stadtgarten’s 40th anniversary celebrations and Cologne Jazzweek, the conference also highlighted the city’s longstanding contribution to European jazz. Its venues and local music community offered a welcoming setting for international exchange and an opportunity to experience different approaches to presenting contemporary music.

EJN Awards Recognising Outstanding Work

The conference celebrated organisations and artists whose work reflects the creativity, commitment and social engagement of the wider jazz community.

The EJN Award for Adventurous Programming went to Südtirol Jazzfestival Alto Adige, recognising its distinctive artistic vision and commitment to bold programming.

The EJN Award for Music & Community was presented to Victory Beats, the Ukrainian initiative that develops music programmes for people injured in the war and for veterans, highlighting music’s role in supporting people and communities.

The conference also celebrated Hyphen Dash from Kyiv, winners of the inaugural Ukrainian Jazz Prize, presented in partnership with the Ukrainian Institute. The four-piece ensemble performed live, bringing their music to an international audience of colleagues and programmers.

Building Connections Across Europe and Beyond

The 12th European Jazz Conference reaffirmed EJN’s role in bringing the creative music sector together, supporting the exchange of ideas and experiences, and creating opportunities for cooperation across borders. The discussions and performances in Cologne highlighted both the diversity of the European jazz community and the shared commitment that connects its members.

These conversations and connections will continue through EJN’s activities and at the next European Jazz Conference. The 13th edition will take place in Alghero, Sardinia, from 30 September to 03 October 2027.

Photo (c) Niclas Weber