Brussels Jazz Vanguard Competition

The Brussels Jazz Vanguard is a competition where a professional jury and the public determine the winners. This new project aims to attract young talent and play a key role in developing the next generation of jazz musicians by offering them unique opportunities. Everything will take place on Place Sainte-Catherine. This square will become a creative hub for artistic growth and a place where musical innovation is encouraged.

The winner of this competition will be selected by a professional jury consisting of renowned music experts. They will not only have the honor of performing at Place Sainte-Catherine during the festival but will also receive, in addition to other prizes, a unique opportunity: opening the prestigious Grand Place stage at the 2026 edition of the festival. Additionally, there will be a public winner, chosen through audience voting, who will have the honor of opening the festival at Place de la Bourse in 2026. These two selected bands will have the chance to perform in front of a larger audience and gain valuable experience in the Brussels jazz scene.

Moreover, each band from the preselection will have one of their songs recorded live during their concert at Place Sainte-Catherine. These 15 songs will then be compiled into the first Brussels Jazz Vanguard 2025 vinyl release. This will ensure lasting visibility for young artists in both the Belgian and international jazz scene. We hope to inspire and encourage a new generation of musicians to make their voices heard in the jazz world.

IMPORTANT DATES

Deadline for applications:  22 March 2025 

Announcement of pre-selection winners: 27 March 2025

Live during the Lotto Brussels Jazz Weekend: 23, 24 and 25 May 2025