Oslojazz Talent
Oslojazz Talent is Oslo Jazz Festival's talent initiative, aimed at bands/projects consisting of music students at college and university level. Oslojazz Talent aims to provide an extra push in the careers of ambitious young jazz musicians in the early stages of their careers.
Each year, selected bands perform for the festival's jazz-loving audience, and this year the concerts will be held at some of the capital's most vibrant venues: Herr Nilsen, Becco, and Blå. In addition to showcase concerts on the festival program, the talent initiative includes concerts with a social profile, masterclasses, industry courses, and four days of festival atmosphere!
Mini festival in Ila Prison and Detention Center
Four of this year's eight bands will be participating in a mini festival in Ila Prison and Detention Center. Here, the bands will meet inmates and play a mini-festival in the prison yard. Former Oslojazz Talent participant Elise Sløgedal has recently been working closely with a band project for inmates. Together with pianist Earling Nikolaisen, they will participate in the airfield festival with their own musical performances. This will be an experience to remember!
Masterclass with Joshua Redman
The other four bands will have a masterclass with Joshua Redman at the National Jazz Scene. The American saxophonist will play several concerts at Oslojazz 2025, and will end his stay in Oslo with a meeting with Oslojazz Talent. The masterclass will consist of both a conversation with Redman and some playing.
Oslojazz Talent is supported by Talent Norway and the Bergesen Foundation.
These bands have been picked out to be Oslojazz Talent bands/artists in 2025: