The 34th edition of Uhoda Jazz in Liège : between heritage and modernity

The 34th edition of the Uhoda Jazz Festival in Liège, held from May 8 to 11, 2025, was a resounding success, confirming its status as a must-attend event for jazz lovers in Belgium and beyond. For four days, Liège came alive to the rhythm of a rich program, blending established artists, emerging talents, and musical explorations.

Among the highlights, the Philip Glass Ensemble delivered a hypnotic performance of Koyaanisqatsi, combining minimalist music with the screening of the cult film, creating a unique immersive experience. Thomas Dutronc charmed the audience with his elegant gypsy jazz and infectious swing. South Korean singer Youn Sun Nah captivated listeners with her haunting voice and her ability to modernize jazz. Yazz Ahmed also stood out with a performance infused with Eastern influences, blending contemporary jazz with Middle Eastern sounds.

The festival also showcased international artists such as Brazilian pianist Amaro Freitas, Swiss trumpeter Erik Truffaz, American saxophonist James Brandon Lewis, and the British trio Mammal Hands. The Belgian scene was equally well represented, with standout performances by Adja, Aleph Quintet, Vaague, Ferdi, and many more. Audiences also discovered innovative sounds with artists like Derya Yıldırım & Grup Şimşek, who brought a psychedelic touch inspired by Turkish folklore.

Spread across several iconic venues in Liège — the Forum, Trocadéro, Reflektor, Cité Miroir, Sauvenière, Hôtel de Clercx, and its Regina Hall — the festival managed to create a welcoming and festive atmosphere.

The event also included initiatives to make jazz accessible to everyone, with children’s workshops as part of “Jazz Kids,” an introduction to swing with Zénobe & Gaston, and free concerts as part of “Jazz Off” in various bars around the city.

A Must-Attend Event

With rising attendance and enthusiastic feedback from both the audience and artists, this 2025 edition of Uhoda Jazz in Liège confirms the vitality of the jazz scene in Wallonia. The festival has established itself as a major event, bringing together diverse audiences around a shared passion for vibrant and creative music.

Jazz à Liège already invites you to the 2026 edition, promising new discoveries and a first big name: renowned American saxophonist Joshua Redman will perform at the next edition!