Despite its name, Jazzkonkurrencen is not about competition, but about development and presenting music across the country. Each night offers a unique opportunity to dive into Denmark’s young jazz scene, where three ensembles showcase jazz’s depth, intensity, and innovative energy. The concerts will take place in Aalborg, Kolding, Odense, and Copenhagen. Alongside their performances, the participating bands will engage in a career development program. A new feature this year is the final, which will be held at Godset in Kolding, where the winner will receive 10,000 DKK and the opportunity to record an EP, including mixing, at The Hideout Studio in Aalborg. Look forward to an evening of exciting new Danish jazz!

Veronika Rud Quartet
Singer and composer Veronika Rud from Aarhus creates a deeply atmospheric musical universe with her debut EP “Mens Jeg Venter”, which has gained attention on P8 Jazz. With a love for Nordic sounds, soul, and Americana, her quartet blends tradition and innovation through playful rhythms and improvisation. The result is an intimate sound that balances honesty with musical adventurousness.

Line-up:
Veronika Rud – vocals
Svend Winther – piano
Elias Hp – double bass
Jakob Marker – drums

Sandløber
Sandløber invites listeners on a journey through grand soundscapes, where Nordic jazz and the melodies of the Danish folk songbook merge into a shared musical language. The band’s original instrumental music intertwines heartfelt tones and storytelling, carrying both warmth and intensity—a musical experience that forges a deep connection between music and people.

Line-up:
Jakob Kaaberbøl – electric guitar
Mira Vistisen Nikolajsen – piano/Rhodes
Emil Als – electric bass
Thomas Pilkington – drums/bodhran

Zinssou Quartet
Zinssou Quartet is not afraid to challenge the boundaries of modern jazz. With piano and cello at the forefront, the quartet blends elements of chamber music, Nordic music, and expressive modern New York jazz. Their debut EP, “Et ungdomstestamente”, is a tribute to naivety, joy of life, and all the emotions that come with youth. The band’s intuitive and exploratory approach to music strives for an honest and vibrant expression that resonates deeply with listeners.

Line-up:
Maiken Thunbo – cello
Carl Zinssou – piano
Elias Hvidtfeldt – double bass
Lasse Gerup – drums