In 2026, Jazz Danmark marks the 100th anniversary of the arrival of jazz in Denmark. With the publication of Kortlægning af de Danske Jazzsamlinger, a new chapter is also being written in the work of preserving and communicating Denmark’s jazz heritage. The publication has been produced in collaboration with initiator Ole Bisbjerg and, for the first time, provides a comprehensive overview of Danish archives and collections that hold the history of Danish jazz.

As part of the reception, music researcher Mikkel Vad (Københavns Universitet) will give a talk on the perspectives and applications of the mapping. Mikkel Vad will also invite a representative from Bart Lewis Jubilee to contribute further reflections on how the material can be activated in communication and artistic practice.

Sign up for the reception here.

What can the mapping be used for?

The mapping includes more than 50 collections — ranging from private enthusiasts to institutions such as Det Kongelige Bibliotek, Danmarks Radio and Center for Dansk Jazzhistorie. The collections contain concert recordings, record releases, photographs, articles and personal archives that together document a century of Danish jazz history.

The publication consists of a digital reference work as well as an introductory pamphlet. It will become a key resource for musicians, researchers, students and anyone interested in Danish jazz and cultural heritage. At the same time, it serves as an important tool in the effort to preserve and communicate the jazz history we stand on the shoulders of — and the history that is being written right now.

Concert: New work rooted in jazz history

Bart Lewis Jubilee is a young Danish jazz trio making a strong mark on the celebration of Dansk Jazz 100 År and working with the earliest Danish jazz as an artistic point of departure. On this evening, the band will present a new work together with Absalon String Quartet.

Programme and practical information

The release reception is open to everyone interested and will take place on 30 April 2026 from 18:00–19:30. Jazz Danmark will serve light food and drinks. Participation in the reception is free of charge but requires registration. Sign up here.

The concert takes place after the reception and requires a separate ticket. Buy tickets at the door or in advance here.

Date: 30 April 2026
Venue: KoncertKirken, Blågaards Plads 6A, 2200 København N

Schedule:
18:00 – Reception begins
18:15 – Welcome by Jazz Danmark’s director Eva Frost and Ole Bisbjerg
18:30 – Talk by researcher in jazz culture Mikkel Vad (Københavns Universitet)
19:30 – Doors open for concert ticket holders
20:00 – Concert with Bart Lewis Jubilee and Absalon String Quartet

International Jazz Day

The date of the reception and concert is not just any day — 30 April is International Jazz Day. International Jazz Day is an official UN observance initiated by the world-renowned Herbie Hancock, and it continues to grow globally year by year. On this day, jazz is celebrated for its ability to promote democratic values, honour diversity, and highlight the intercultural strengths of jazz.

In eastern Jutland, these very qualities of jazz are celebrated by the association Bazarjazz at the event International Jazz Day i Gellerup. The association has planned an impressive programme featuring, among others, the international jazz star Zara McFarlane, Hilal Kaya & Thorhan, and more. Read more about the day and the full programme here.

At International Jazz Day i Gellerup it will also be possible to obtain a copy of the new publication and gain insight into the mapping of the Danish jazz collections.