Young jazz talent & music maestro to hit GIJ stage

THE Generations in Jazz Festival is proud to announce that the 2026 event will open on Friday night with an electrifying performance by the Australian National Youth Jazz Orchestra (ANJO) Youth Big Band, joined by internationally acclaimed Belgian trumpet player and composer Bert Joris.

The ANJO Youth Big Band represents some of Australia’s most exceptional emerging jazz artists.

Bringing together the nation’s top young musicians, the ensemble provides world-class performance opportunities, national and international exposure, and mentorship under leading jazz professionals.

Their appearance at Generations in Jazz showcases the remarkable depth of talent within Australia’s next generation of jazz musicians.

Joining them for this special performance is Bert Joris, widely recognised as one of the world’s most dynamic and melodic jazz composers.

Joris began his professional career at the age of 18 as trumpet soloist touring Europe with the Mel Lewis Band, later spending ten years as a full-time member of the Belgian Radio Jazz Orchestra, where he developed his distinctive musical style as both improviser and composer.

Over his celebrated career, Joris has collaborated with many of the world’s foremost jazz figures, including long-standing partnerships with guitarist Philip Catherine, the Brussels Jazz Orchestra, and Australia’s Jazz groove Mothership Orchestra, for who he has composed, arranged and toured extensively.

His contributions to jazz also extend into film music and education.

Joris’ accolades include the prestigious Django d’Or and the Flemish Culture Prize, awarded for his groundbreaking composition Dangerous Liaisons for the Brussels Jazz Orchestra and Brussels Philharmonic.

The 2026 Friday Night Opening promises to deliver an unforgettable celebration of artistry, energy and world-class musicianship, setting the tone for a vibrant festival weekend.

Mark your calendars for Friday, May 1 to Sunday, May 3 next year and be a part of the world’s largest Big Band festival held in South Australia’s Limestone Coast. Tickets on sale in the New Year.