JOIN THE JM JAZZ WORLD ORCHESTRA 2026!

Are you ready to take your jazz skills to the world stage? We’re calling all jazz musicians aged 18–26 to audition for the JM Jazz World Orchestra 2026, the premier global youth jazz ensemble. This isn’t just any orchestra — it’s your chance to collaborate with outstanding young jazz musicians and be part of an international artistic community.

From inspiring rehearsals in the hilltop village of Grožnjan, Croatia, to a European concert tour across leading festivals and venues, the JMJWO offers a unique opportunity to grow artistically, gain real touring experience, and perform at the highest level.

What truly sets the JM Jazz World Orchestra apart is the depth of the experience beyond the stage. Musicians train and perform under the guidance of internationally acclaimed mentors and composers, travel through countries such as Croatia, Slovenia, Germany, Austria, and Italy, and immerse themselves in a rich cultural exchange — building lasting friendships and memories that stay long after the final note.

Applications close on March 2, 2026 (23:59 CET).

👉 Discover full details and apply here!

A LOOK BACK AT JMJWO 2025

The JM Jazz World Orchestra 2025 lit up the summer with a jazz-filled journey that started in Triste, Italy and followed with destinations in Croatia, such as Grožnjan, Zadar, Dubrovnik and Tuzla of Bosnia & Herzegovina. The concerts finalized with a spectacular performance at the esteemed Young Euro Classics in Berlin, Germany.

Under the mentorship of Artistic Director Luis Bonilla, the US-Costa Rican trombonist, composer, and educator celebrated across international music scenes, this year’s newly formed ensemble united outstanding young musicians from across the globe including USA, Australia, Ukraine, Spain, New Zealand, Belarus, Indonesia, Mexico, Turkey, UK, Canada, Puerto Rico, Belgium, Croatia, Slovenia, Austria, Germany and Luxembourg, the ensemble showcased its fresh energy and global spirit.

Vocalist Angelina Kolobukhova from Belarus reflects on what made the journey so special:

It was my first time working with a big band extensively — and I enjoyed every moment! Touring was such a thrill, and we were welcomed so warmly everywhere we went. I enjoyed being welcomed so warmly by the audience of each city and performing at such unique locations like the fortress of the old city in Dubrovnik and the incredible historic Konzerthaus in Berlin.

She continues reflecting on the rehearsals and the inspiring tour which sparked unexpected connections with each member in the ensemble, as alike as different:

Even though we were all from different cultures, we connected so quickly, it felt like I had known everyone for ages. And learning a folk song in Bosnia was such a fun challenge!

Beyond the performances, lasting friendships were made, new skills discovered, and creativity flourished — from late-night musical exchanges to inspiring masterclasses on the road. The JM Jazz World Orchestra experience proved once again that it’s not just about the music; it’s about connection, growth, and shared passion. Here’s what some of our other orchestra members had to say about their journey:

As the final notes of the JM Jazz World Orchestra 2025 tour fade out, the journey continues. Each year, a new generation of young jazz musicians steps into this global ensemble — carrying the same spirit of collaboration, curiosity, and shared passion that defined this year’s orchestra.

If you’re a jazz musician aged 18–26 and ready to take your music to the world stage, applications for the JM Jazz World Orchestra 2026 are now open for you. Apply here!

Who knows — next year, it could be your story we’re sharing. 🌍🎶