Despite the global pull of the World Cup, Scotland’s jazz scene proved it could draw a crowd of its own, as thousands of music fans turned out in force for the 40th edition of the Glasgow Jazz Festival.
Swapping stadiums for stages and chants for saxophones, audiences packed into venues across the city over five days, enjoying more than 40 performances that showcased the depth and diversity of both Scottish and international jazz talent.
Running from Wednesday 10 to Sunday 14 June, the milestone festival welcomed around 220 musicians to nearly 20 venues, including the Old Fruitmarket, widely regarded as the festival’s spiritual home. From soul and funk to blues and experimental jazz, the programme offered something for every taste, with audiences described as “singing, swinging and winning” throughout the weekend.
This year’s line-up combined established names with rising stars, delivering standout performances from acclaimed saxophonist Courtney Pine, Mercury Prize-nominated pianist Fergus McCreadie and award-winning vocalist Marianne MacGregor. International flair came courtesy of Australian multi-instrumentalist Audrey Powne, while Scotland’s thriving homegrown scene was represented by SAY Award winners Kai Reesu, nu-jazz vocalist Gaïa, Glasgow’s own Pippa Blundell and contemporary outfit Sekoya.
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Jill Rodger, Director of Glasgow Jazz Festival, hailed the event as a major success: “What a feeling it is to officially have 40 editions under our belt – we can most definitely say the 2026 festival was a resounding win. The past, present and future of our thriving jazz scene was lovingly celebrated, and the homegrown talent on display was enough to make anyone feel proud to be Scottish.
“This cultural moment was played out under stage lights rather than floodlights, but for music fans it was just as thrilling as the spectacle happening across the pond. I would like to thank all of our audiences who came out to enjoy the festival, our gigs and the brilliant programmed artists – your support has made our 40th edition a fitting celebration and success.”
Glasgow Jazz Festival 2026 was supported by Creative Scotland and the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games Festival Fund, alongside sponsors Second Line Records, SM Lighting Scotland Ltd and ESP Music Rentals. The festival is set to return in June 2027.
