In 2026, Jazz Danmark marks the 100th anniversary of jazz’s arrival in Denmark. With the release of Mapping of Danish Jazz Collections, a new chapter is simultaneously written in the ongoing work to preserve and communicate Denmark’s jazz heritage. Developed in collaboration with initiator Ole Bisbjerg, the publication provides a comprehensive and up-to-date overview of the Danish archives and collections that hold the history of Danish jazz.

The mapping covers 64 collections – ranging from private enthusiasts to established institutions such as Det Kongelige Bibliotek, Danmarks Radio, and Center for Dansk Jazzhistorie. These collections include concert recordings, record releases, photographs, sheet music, articles, and personal archives, which together document a century of Danish jazz history.

Mapping of Danish Jazz Collections can be downloaded here.

The publication is currently available in Danish only. We hope to publish an English version at a later date.

The header image shows record addict Arnvid Meyer in 1996. © Cim Meyer.

An overview of a rich history – preserved for future generations

Mapping of Danish Jazz Collections is a digital reference work that provides an up-to-date overview of Denmark’s preserved jazz heritage. It serves as a key resource for musicians, researchers, students, and anyone with an interest in Danish jazz and cultural heritage. At the same time, it is an important tool in the ongoing effort to ensure both the preservation and dissemination of jazz history.

The aim is to provide insight into the extensive cultural heritage contained within the 64 collections. While some materials are searchable through institutional systems, the majority still require on-site access and in-depth study.

Jazz is a living and ever-evolving art form, but its history depends on preserving the traces of what has come before. This mapping is therefore not merely a register of existing collections – it is also a contribution to ensuring that future generations have access to Denmark’s jazz history.

An Introduction to the Mapping

As a supplement, Jazz Danmark has also published Danish Jazz Collections – An Introduction to the Mapping. This publication is aimed at readers seeking a broader perspective on the collections and their potential – both for general audiences and for continued work with preservation and dissemination.

Danish Jazz Collections – An Introduction to the Mapping can be downloaded here.

The publication is currently available in Danish only. We hope to publish an English version at a later date.

Follow the Jazz Year 2026

Throughout 2026, Jazz Danmark presents events across the country under the banner Danish Jazz 100 Years, in collaboration with jazz organisers nationwide. The programme features musicians across genres, generations, and environments.

New events are continuously added, so keep an eye on local concert calendars as well as livejazz.dk, which gathers anniversary events on an ongoing basis. A PDF version of the programme as it appeared on launch day can also be downloaded here.