From August 21 to 24, 2025, the town of Saalfelden will once again transform into a vibrant stage for creative and experimental music. Today, we are excited to announce additional acts, share updates on the concert format “We hike Jazz,” and reveal the date of the official press conference. Moreover, the Jazzfestival Saalfelden will be represented at the music fair "jazzahead!".
Three exceptional acts added to the Mainstage lineup
The trio Weird of Mouth (Denmark, USA), featuring saxophonist Mette Rasmussen, pianist Craig Taborn, and drummer Ches Smith, blends free jazz, improvisation, and sonic exploration. Their high-energy music offers a thrilling dive into the depths of modern creativity, described as "wild," "powerful," and "mysterious."
Award-winning Mexican vibraphonist Patricia Brennan presents her septet “Breaking Stretch” (USA), creating multilayered avant-garde jazz soundscapes. Her style combines rhythmic funk, chamber music elements, and folk influences from Veracruz. Joined by Jon Irabagon (sax), Mark Shim (sax), Adam O’Farrill (tr, electronics), Kim Cass (bass), and Mauricio Herrera (perc), the group explores musical boundaries - always focused on melody and rhythm, shaped by vibraphone, marimba, and percussion.
At this year’s festival, Laura Jurd will present her new album “Rites & Revelation”, offering a deep, experimental insight into her unique jazz-folk style - ranging from Scottish roots to the Louis Armstrong classic "St. James Infirmary." The London-based trumpeter introduces a new ensemble: South Tyrolean bassist Ruth Goller, Scottish drummer Corrie Dick (Dinosaur, Norman & Corrie), Irish fiddler Ultan O’Brien, and London guitarist Tara Cunningham. “Her music is always vibrant, accessible, and often resembles wordless songs,” wrote John Fordham in The Guardian.
“We hike Jazz” sold out – Limited tickets for “Shortcuts”
The extraordinary concert format “We hike Jazz”, which combines music with the breathtaking alpine scenery, is already sold out. The enthusiasm for these unique guided hikes with live music is immense.
However, a limited number of tickets remain for the Shortcuts concert series at Kunsthaus NEXUS – it's worth acting fast!
Tickets for seated and standing areas at the Mainstage concerts are still available.
Jazzfestival Saalfelden at jazzahead!
Once again, the Jazzfestival Saalfelden will be present at the international jazz fair “jazzahead!”. Interested visitors can find us at the Austrian Heartbeats booth / 6D50 – we look forward to inspiring conversations and new musical encounters!
