The life of Jutta Hipp is undoubtedly cinematic: it includes the meteoric rise of an underdog and several unexpected twists and turns. Born in Leipzig in 1925, the pianist was one of the most talented jazz musicians in Europe in the 1950s and recorded three albums for the legendary jazz label Blue Note Records. A few years after moving to New York, she suddenly retired from the stage at the height of her career and began working as a seamstress in a textile factory.

For many years, Hipp's work and life were forgotten. For some time now, however, it has gradually been rediscovered. Jazz saxophonist Ilona Haberkamp, who published a biography of Hipp entitled "Plötzlich Hip(p)" last year, has played a large part in this. To mark the 100th anniversary of her birth, LeipJAZZig is organizing a commemorative event in honour of the pianist with a varied musical programme. The evening will be rounded off with contributions from Haberkamp.