MONTREUX JAZZ FESTIVAL JAPAN 2024

The Montreux Jazz Festival (MJF), first held in Montreux, Switzerland, in 1967, has evolved from a local jazz event into one of the world’s most prestigious music festivals, now recognized as one of the “Big Three” jazz festivals globally. Initially conceived to promote local tourism and contribute to regional revitalization, MJF has since grown into a major cultural landmark.

While it began as a jazz-focused festival, MJF has since broadened its scope to feature an eclectic mix of genres, showcasing world-class artists in blues, rock, reggae, soul, and global music from Africa and Latin America. The festival now serves as a vibrant showcase of musical diversity, attracting a broad array of performers from across the globe. Additionally, throughout the event, a range of free concerts and public events are held at various venues across Montreux, further extending the festival’s cultural reach.

Over its 16-day duration, the festival transforms Montreux into a dynamic celebration of music, culture, and community, drawing over 250,000 visitors from around the world. Attendees not only experience world-class performances but also enjoy the natural beauty, cultural heritage, and historical charm that Montreux has to offer. We hope you will join us!

For more information, visit the official website: https://www.montreuxjazzfestival.com/en/

The Montreux Jazz Festival Japan (MJFJ) bring this spirit from the Montreux Jazz Festival to Japan. Since its launch in 2015, it has been well-received as an urban music festival where you can experience high-quality, stimulating live performances, and as a multi-cultural event where music, art, fashion and other diverse cultures intersect.

After a hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic, MJFJ will restart in the winter of 2024 with top musicians from Japan and abroad. 

The first of the artists to be announced is the 84-year-old American music legend Herbie Hancock, who is a regular at the MJF in his home country and is highly respected. Also appearing from Japan is Yoko Kanno Seatbelts, led by Yoko Kanno, who rarely performs live.

The key visual for the event, which always gets attention, was drawn by Shinichi Ishizuka, the author of the popular jazz manga “BLUE GIANT” which was also made into a movie. The dynamic artwork features a multinational band with unique characters, and their identities will be revealed along with details of the event in the lead up to MJFJ.

Both MJF and MJFJ stand as pivotal cultural bridges, connecting global audiences to the vibrant world of music while contributing to the revitalization of local communities through their festivals. The festivals serve as key platforms for uniting music and jazz enthusiasts from around the world, playing an integral role in the cultural enrichment and development of the regions they represent.

■ Date: December 6th (Fri), 7th (Sat), and 8th (Sun) 2024
■ Performing artists: Herbie Hancock, YOKO KANNO SEATBELTS, and others ■ Venue: Pia Arena MM (3-2-2 Minatomirai, Nishi-ku, Yokohama, Kanagawa Prefecture)
Information about performing artists and satellite events will be announced periodically. Please check here for the latest updates.

Organizer: MJFJ2024 Executive Committee
Supported by the Embassy of Switzerland in Japan / Vitality.Swiss