Jazz Noir Galla 2026
On April 27th, 2026, Jazz Music Norway presented its annual Jazz Noir Gala at the iconic Chat Noir Theater in Oslo, an unforgettable evening that brought together some of Norway’s most celebrated artists in a sold-out performance dedicated to both artistic excellence and social impact.
The concert featured Norsk Jazzorkester under the direction of Felix Peikli, joined by an extraordinary lineup of guest artists: Alexander Rybak (the first official ambassador of Playing for a Future) alongside Elisabeth Andreassen, Guri Schanke, Bjarte Hjelmeland, Jannike Kruse, and Heine Totland. Together, they delivered a dynamic and genre-spanning program, blending jazz with theatrical and contemporary influences in true Jazz Noir spirit.
The gala also marked UNESCO International Jazz Day, celebrating the global values that jazz represents: freedom of expression, cultural dialogue, and unity across borders. Jazz Music Norway has proudly been at the forefront of marking this day in Norway since 2018, recognizing its importance not only as a musical celebration, but as a platform for international understanding and collaboration.
With a full house at Chat Noir, the evening stood as a testament to the power of music to engage, inspire, and connect audiences. Beyond the artistic achievements on stage, the concert carried a deeper purpose, all proceeds from the gala were donated to Playing for a Future, supporting its mission to provide music education and opportunities for children and young people in underserved communities worldwide.
The Jazz Noir Gala continues to establish itself as a highlight of the Norwegian cultural calendar, where world-class performance meets meaningful impact. Jazz Music Norway extends its sincere gratitude to the artists, partners, and audience who made the evening possible and who continue to support the belief that music can be a force for positive change.utes, and special collaborations are planned throughout the season as Jazz Music Norway continues its mission to present world-class jazz experiences in Oslo.
