The EFG London Jazz Festival has announced a new wave of artists joining the programme for its 2026 edition, which will take place from 13 to 22 November across venues throughout the British capital.
Among the most anticipated events is Coltrane 100: Both Directions at Once, scheduled for 13 November at the Barbican. The all-star quintet brings together Joe Lovano, Melissa Aldana, Nduduzo Makhathini, Linda May Han Oh and Jeff “Tain” Watts in a performance that forms part of the celebrations marking the centenary of John Coltrane’s birth – one of the many themes running through this year’s festival.
The tribute to the legendary saxophonist will continue on 21 November with Branford Marsalis + Dianne Reeves Celebrate John Coltrane, while Emma-Jean Thackray will present her tribute to Miles Davis with Dear Miles – A Love Letter at EartH Theatre.
Previously announced artists include Melody Gardot, who will appear at the Royal Albert Hall on 16 November, alongside Samara Joy, Fatoumata Diawara, Morcheeba, Ben Folds and Kronos Quartet.
The programme also features a number of artists working at the edges of contemporary jazz. On 15 November, the Barbican will host Anouar Brahem, while trumpeter Ambrose Akinmusire will appear at Kings Place with his quartet. The same day will also see a performance by Japanese composer and saxophonist Yasuaki Shimizu, internationally renowned for his distinctive interpretations of Bach.
Pianist Gerald Clayton, a six-time Grammy nominee and one of the leading figures of today’s American jazz scene, will perform at Cadogan Hall on 21 November with a trio featuring Joe Sanders and Jeff Ballard. The venue will also host the Andy Sheppard Trio, with Rita Marcotulli and Michel Benita, as well as Norma Winstone in duo with Kit Downes.
Among the festival’s most original events is Haruki Murakami’s Jazz at Peter Cat: a Japanese Jazz Night, taking place at the Barbican on 21 November. Inspired by the celebrated Tokyo jazz club run by the Japanese novelist (who will not be attending the event in person) between 1974 and 1981, the project brings together leading musicians from Japan, including Junko Onishi and Yoshio Suzuki, in a multimedia exploration combining music, imagery and literature.
The programme also includes the return of Kyoto Jazz Massive with Echoes of a New Dawn Orchestra, Vital Spark (Music of Kenny Wheeler) (Edition Records) – the project featuring Dave Holland, Norma Winstone & London Vocal Project, a collaboration between Tania Giannouli and Nils Petter Molvær, as well as performances by Lizz Wright and Cécile McLorin Salvant.
Further announcements are expected in the coming weeks.
