From February 27 to March 1, 2026, the ballroom of Leipzig's New Town Hall will be transformed into a lively resonance chamber for young talent: the 16th Jazz Festival for Children and Young People will bring together young musicians who share one thing above all else: their enthusiasm for jazz—and the joy of making music together.

The Kids Jazz L.E. e.V. association has been organizing this special festival since 2011. It is not a competition, a contest of strength, or a trophy hunt—it is an invitation to come together. It is about exchange rather than awards, about the joy of playing rather than scoring points. 

The registration deadlines for participation have now passed. The selection process is underway, and we are all eagerly awaiting the publication of the program, which, as every year, will be based on the applications received. 

One thing is already certain: in 2026, the New Town Hall will once again be a place of discovery. Workshops will offer registered participants a space for exchange and inspiration, while concerts will showcase the diversity of what moves young jazz musicians today.