Elbphil­harmonie Jazz Academy 2027

Perform on the stage of the Elbphilharmonie and work with internationally renowned jazz musicians: the Elbphilharmonie Jazz Academy makes it possible! From 8 to 15 August 2027, 15 selected musicians will come together in Hamburg to work with six mentors in ensembles, sectionals, workshops and individual sessions, while developing their own compositions. The Academy concludes with a final concert in the Elbphilharmonie Grand Hall. Apply now!

Information

• Mandatory Online Meeting: 28 June 2027, 16:00–17:30 (CEST – Hamburg time)
• Arrival: by 14:30 on 8 August 2027
• Jazz Academy: 8–15 August 2027
• Academy Workshops: 9–14 August 2027 (all day)
• Final Concert: 15 August 2027, Elbphilharmonie Grand Hall
• Mentors: Allison Miller (Artistic Director, drums), Linda May Han Oh (double bass), Avishai Cohen (trumpet), Kit Downes (piano, organ), Cassie Kinoshi (saxophone, composition), Alicia Olatuja (vocals)
• Additional lecturers: TBA
• The Promoter covers the costs of the workshops and panels (fees, venue hire and backline) and organises hotel accommodation for the duration of the Academy. Hotel accommodation (breakfast at the hotel included) and catering at the venue is fully covered by the Promoter. Any other food and drink expenses outside the venue (e.g. at the hotel or other establishments) must be covered by the participants themselves.
• Participants are responsible for their own travel expenses. Travel costs to attend the Jazz Academy will be covered for participants who live and work in a country included on the OECD DAC List of ODA Recipients.
• Backline will be provided. Please let us know in advance about any special requests or additional requirements.

Terms & Conditions of Participation

• The Elbphilharmonie Jazz Academy is organised by HamburgMusik gGmbH (Promoter).
• Applicants must be between 18 and 29 years old on 8 August 2027.
• Applicants must have several years of musical training with the aim of pursuing a professional career in music. Applicants must also compose their own music and be prepared to work on their own compositions during the Academy.
• A total of 15 participants will be admitted to the Jazz Academy.
• The selection is made by an expert jury comprising the Artistic Director and other professionals from the jazz scene, including musicians, journalists and promoters.
• The jury’s decision will be communicated to applicants in early May 2027.
• The Elbphilharmonie Jazz Academy is held in English.
• Participation requires full attendance at the Jazz Academy from 8 to 15 August 2027 as well as attendance at the mandatory online meeting on 28 June 2027.
• Photographs as well as audio and video recordings will be made during the Elbphilharmonie Jazz Academy and may be published by the Promoter for the purpose of documenting and promoting the programmes of the Elbphilharmonie and Laeiszhalle.
• By submitting an application, applicants accept these Terms & Conditions of Participation. The Promoter reserves the right to amend details of the application process and the Terms & Conditions of Participation where necessary.
• Participation is at your own risk.

Recordings

For your application, please submit two audio recordings in MP3 format:

• a recording of one of the ten jazz standards listed below, in your own interpretation
• a recording of one of your own original compositions

Recordings with a rhythm section or ensemble are preferred. If this is not possible, the jazz standard may also be recorded using a play-along.

Each recording should be no longer than 4:30 minutes.

Please also provide a link to a video of yourself or your ensemble, such as a live or studio recording or music video. YouTube or Vimeo links may be public or unlisted, but should be accessible without a password. For longer videos, you are welcome to provide a relevant timecode.