The Ukrainian Institute, in partnership with Europe Jazz Network (EJN), is proud to announce the launch of the first Ukrainian Jazz Prize — a new national award designed to support, promote, and internationally recognise Ukrainian jazz musicians who continue to create, perform, and inspire despite the challenges of wartime.
On 25 November 2025, the initiative was officially presented during a press conference and celebratory concert at Origin Stage in Kyiv, gathering representatives of cultural institutions, media, and the jazz community. The event marked an important milestone in strengthening Ukraine’s international cultural presence and deepening cooperation within the European jazz ecosystem.
A Powerful Showcase of Ukrainian Jazz
The launch concert featured some of the most outstanding Ukrainian jazz artists, including Dennis Adu, Usein Bekirov, Hyphen Dash, Mark Tokar, Natalia Lebedieva, Yevhen Dubovyk, Marjan Karpinskyi, Pavlo Halytskyi, and Borys Mohylevskyi.
One of the highlights of the concert has been a Ukrainian National anthem performed in jazz interpretations by Dennis Adu, Natalia Lebedeva, Mark Tokar, Boris Mohylevsky and Pavlo Halytsky.
Their performances — combining original compositions, expressive improvisations, and collaborative interplay — demonstrated the artistic excellence and resilience of today’s Ukrainian jazz scene, celebrating the spirit of freedom and creativity at the heart of jazz.
Watch the final piece of the concert composed by Usein Bekirov, crimean tatar pianist together with Dennis Adu (trumpet), Boris Mohylevsky (savophone), Maryan Karpinsky (guitar) and Pavlo Halytsky on drums.
Introducing the Ukrainian Jazz Prize: Two Key Nominations
With the support of EJN and Ukrainian partners (Fusion Jams, Origin Stage, Pomitni, DUMA Studios), the prize launches with two main categories:
1. Best Ukrainian Jazz Band 2025
For outstanding Ukrainian jazz ensembles based in Ukraine.
Prizes:
A concert tour in five major European jazz venues supported by EJN members (grand prix)
One recording day at DUMA Studios
Professional consulting for a promotional campaign by label Pomitni
2. Best Jazz Album Release 2025
For the strongest Ukrainian jazz album released between 1 January and 31 December 2025.
Prize:
Album reviews or interviews in leading international jazz media (currently nine confirmed media partners)
International Jury
The Ukrainian Jazz Prize is evaluated by an international jury representing prominent jazz organisations, festivals, venues, and media:
Open Call Now Launched
The open call for the Ukrainian Jazz Prize 2025 is now open to all musicians aged 18+ who are based in Ukraine and to artists releasing new albums in 2025 (for the Best Release nomination).
Deadline: 15 January 2026
Application forms:
Best Ukrainian Jazz Band 2025: https://forms.gle/WSVNbSAZQAYZut8o9
Best Jazz Album Release 2025: https://forms.gle/u4p1XtpPCo4EoPis9
Award Ceremony in 2026
The winners will be announced in early spring 2026, and the official award ceremony will take place in September 2026 during the European Jazz Conference in Cologne, hosted by EJN.
