News • 08.12.2025
Freundschaft at the halfway mark: three participants reflect
Three artists have reached the halfway point of the Freundschaft project, and their stories reveal how engaging with the German-speaking jazz scene has already opened new doors for them.
Freundschaft is a two-year initiative designed to support six musicians in their ambition to grow internationally and expand their careers within the German-speaking jazz world. At the halfway stage, artists Marcela Lucatelli, Makiko Hirabayashi and Svaneborg Kardyb reflect on their experiences so far.
Marcela Lucatelli: New audiences and a stronger European presence
For Marcela, Freundschaft was an opportunity to broaden her artistic practice in German-speaking countries and to work in environments where experimental jazz can unfold professionally.
One of the clear highlights of the project was her concert with Necromancy at the Saalfelden Jazz Festival, which became a pivotal moment and an important encounter with a new audience. In addition, Freundschaft’s support for transport, PR and documentation has allowed her to focus more fully on the music.
“Freundschaft has meant that I’ve been able to concentrate on developing my artistic work with greater stability, well-being and professionalism across borders.” – Marcela Lucatelli. Photo: Matthias Heschl
Makiko Hirabayashi: International response and strong visibility
While Marcela sought new audiences, Makiko Hirabayashi entered Freundschaft with a more concrete, strategic goal: the promotion of Weaver’s upcoming album Gifts in Germany, Austria and Switzerland. The aim was to build awareness ahead of the album’s January 2025 release and plan release concerts in the three countries.
The Freundschaft funding has made it possible to significantly increase activity in both 2025 and 2026, while the PR efforts surrounding Gifts have generated wider visibility and resulted in numerous positive reviews in Germany and Austria.
Makiko Hirabayashi at Münster Internation Jazz Festival. Press photo.
Svaneborg Kardyb: More cities and bigger stages
For Svaneborg Kardyb, the Freundschaft project has primarily been a chance to strengthen their position in Germany as a touring live act. Germany has long been central to their international touring plans, and Freundschaft has enabled them to take risks on new venues — including those where income depends mainly on ticket sales.
In the long term, the duo hopes to build a loyal audience across new cities, allowing them to return again and again and grow those relationships over many years.
“The project has meant that we’ve been able to play a wider variety of venues, and that we’ve dared to take chances on places where most of the income comes from door sales.” – Svaneborg Kardyb. Press photo.
Freundschaft
Freundschaft is a two-year career development programme that helps both established and emerging musicians strengthen their presence in Germany, Switzerland and Austria through a tailored process shaped by the artists’ own visions and JazzDanmark’s many years of experience and network in the region. Makiko Hirabayashi, Marcela Lucatelli Necromancy and Svaneborg Kardyb were the first participants of the project, starting Summer 2024. Kathrine Windfeld, Antistatic and Jesper Thorn joined the project early 2025.
Pictured in the top photo is Marcela Lucatelli at Saalfelden 2025. Photo: Matthias Heschl.
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