Greek jazz is set to make a dynamic appearance this spring as artists from across the country travel to jazzahead!, part of the German Jazz Expo 2026, taking place on April 22-25 in Bremen.
Widely regarded as one of the most influential global gatherings for jazz professionals, jazzahead! brings together musicians, producers, promoters, and industry leaders for a packed program of performances, networking, and exchange. This year’s edition marks the expo’s 20th anniversary, welcoming Sweden as partner country.
jazzahead! 2026 will feature 38 showcase acts from over 20 countries selected by international juries. Acts include everything from traditional jazz and experimental to electronic and cross-cultural projects, with Greek artists participating across both the live performance program and the industry platform.
The festival’s extensive lineup includes showcase concerts, the popular “Clubnight” spread across venues throughout Bremen, improvisation sessions, “Jazz for Kids” events, and an expanding fringe program. A new addition, the jazzahead! Academy, offers students and emerging professionals hands-on insight into the global music industry.
At the heart of the event is the official showcase program on April 23-24, where eight acts selected by an international jury perform for global delegates making it a career-defining opportunity for most.
Greek Jazz Looking to Expand
The Petros Klampanis Trio will be performing at this year’s jazzahead! in Bremen, Germany. Photo: Aspa Koulira
Greece will be participating this year through Music From Greece, a newly established export office dedicated to promoting the country’s music internationally. The initiative supports artists, labels, and industry professionals by facilitating participation in major global events and fostering connections with international partners. Backed by the Greek Ministry of Culture and Autodia, Music From Greece is building on last year’s successful delegation, which featured more than 20 Greek artists and professionals. Its mission extends beyond promotion, offering strategic guidance, networking opportunities, and access to funding resources aimed at helping Greek talent build sustainable international careers.
“We are excited to once again be participating in jazzahead! 2026 following the successful organization of the Greek delegation and the official showcase of Andreas Polyzogopoulos in 2025,” Angeliki Spyridaki, Founder Music From Greece, tells tovima.com.
“It’s an honor to represent Greece at such a significant international event, a key meeting point for the European jazz scene, and to support the presence of Greek artists, professionals, and organizations on this global platform.”
Greek Artists to Watch
jazzahead! 2024 Showcase Act Photo: M3B GmbH Jan Rathke
This year’s Greek presence includes both acclaimed and emerging performers. Among them, the Maria Manousaki Duo, led by Maria Manousaki on violin and Dimitris Verdinoglou on piano. The band will be performing on April 24, blending jazz with Cretan and world music influences.
Also on April 24, the Petros Klampanis Trio will be presenting its distinctive fusion of jazz and Mediterranean soundscapes.
Greece’s participation this year marks a strategic shift toward export and international collaboration. Increasingly recognized beyond its borders, Greek jazz is gaining visibility across European circuits and building momentum on the global stage.
As the Bremen expo opens its doors, Greece’s thriving jazz community is ready not just to perform but to connect, collaborate, and be heard. TO BHMA International Edition and tovima.com will be on the ground in Bremen to cover the exciting news.
