Glasgow Jazz Festival 2026 Celebrates 40 Years of Music

Glasgow Jazz Festival Celebrates 40 Years of Music

Music lovers are being invited to join the celebrations as Glasgow Jazz Festival 2026 marks a major milestone this June with its 40th edition.

Returning to the city from 10–14 June 2026, Scotland’s longest-running music festival will celebrate four decades of jazz with a packed programme featuring 175 musicians performing across 40 events over five days.

Glasgow Jazz Festival 2026

Since launching in 1987, Glasgow Jazz Festival has played a key role in shaping the city’s reputation as a destination for world-class jazz. Over the years, the festival has welcomed major international names while supporting generations of Scottish musicians.

The festival also helped transform the Old Fruitmarket into one of Glasgow’s best-loved live music venues.

What to Expect

This year’s anniversary programme spans jazz, blues, soul and funk, bringing together established stars and emerging talent.

Highlights include a performance from acclaimed saxophonist Courtney Pine, a solo set from award-winning guitarist Martin Taylor, and jazz vocalist Marianne MacGregor performing the songs of Amy Winehouse.

A special 40 Years of Glasgow Jazz Festival round-table discussion will also take place, with festival directors past and present reflecting on how the event has evolved over four decades.

Two shows featuring trumpeter Colin Steele, honouring Miles Davis in what would have been his centenary year, have already sold out.

Glasgow Jazz Festival 2026 Celebrates 40 Years of Music — Colin Steele Quartet By Alan Donaldson

40 Years of Jazz in Glasgow

“Reaching 40 editions feels like a huge milestone and one that we’re incredibly proud to mark. This year’s programme reflects the sense of collaboration, diversity and sheer creativity to be found at the heart of the city’s jazz scene.

“The festival has evolved significantly over four decades so it’s wonderful to be able to reflect on all that’s been achieved and look to Scottish jazz’s bright future. We’d love to see music fans from across Scotland and beyond join us in making this a 40th party to remember.”

Jill Rodger, Director of Glasgow Jazz Festival