jazzahead! 2024 ⎪ 11–13 April ⎟ Bremen (DE)
18th jazzahead! with a large Swiss presence
The demand for face-to-face dialogue continues unabated after the pandemic years, as evidenced by the world’s largest jazz fair.
Last year’s SWISS MUSIC stand recorded a new high with 57 accreditations, a figure that was surpassed in 2024 with 60 participants. Switzerland’s attendance in Bremen, which was once again organised in cooperation with FONDATION SUISA, Pro Helvetia and SONART – Swiss musician’s association – is enormously important for the Swiss scene, as reflected in the reactions of visitors to the stand. The music business has become tougher, due to the continuing imbalance between supply and demand – hence the reason for the professionals focussing on long-term networking over the four days. The Swiss stand provided an ideal venue for this.
Live acts and other events at jazzahead! 2024
Switzerland could also be heard live: singer, pianist and composer Yumi Ito and her trio delighted their audience with a showcase, while pianist Claude Diallo was able to present himself to an international audience as part of the club night. A central plank of the Swiss activities was also the exclusive support provided for new start-up UNIT Records. Andreas Waelti and Luca Sisera acquired the long-established Swiss label’s brand name last year. At the SWISS MUSIC stand, the duo was given the opportunity to present their relaunched label to industry professionals and visitors alike at this key international jazz event.
Photo ©Maria Jarzyna
Photo ⓒNina Chen
Photo ⓒAndi Schnoz
The trend towards longevity and sustainability was clearly discernible at jazzahead!, with various approaches proposed such as the possibility of “green touring”. This shows that the fair is looking to the future under its new energetic artistic director, Götz Bühler – something that is urgently needed in view of the challenges facing the music market.
The 19th edition of jazzahead! will take place from 24 to 27 April 2025.
jazzahead! 2024 in figures:
• 2’985 professional attendees
• 66 participating nations
• 14’490 visitors
SWISS MUSIC @ jazzahead! 2024 in pictures:
