Every summer, jazz swings into Glasgow – and this year’s festival is set to be one of its most exciting yet. From cinematic collectives and vocal powerhouses to iconic names in American soul-jazz, the 2025 line-up features over 100 musicians performing across 25+ stages between Wednesday 18 – Sunday 22 June.
Whether you’re jazz-curious or a regular on the scene, this year’s programme has something worth booking for everyone. We’ve picked out five of the most unmissable performances — with tips from Festival Director Jill Rodger on what not to miss.
Marianne McGregor
When: Sunday 22 June
Where: The Green Room, Glasgow Royal Concert Hall
Scottish jazz is enjoying a bit of a golden era — and no one embodies that more than powerhouse vocalist Marianne McGregor. A previous winner of Best Vocalist at the Scottish Jazz Awards, she’s launching her hotly anticipated, self-penned album Make Believe in the Royal Concert Hall’s intimate Green Room.
Known for soulful originals about love, loss and growth, Orkney-raised Marianne invites audiences into her world with every note. Festival Director Jill Rodger says:
“Expect improvisational fireworks and a blend of old-school jazz with inventive twists that push the genre forward. This will be a stunning night.”
If you want to catch an artist defining the future of UK vocal jazz — backed by an impressive band — this one’s a must.
Fat-Suit play Video Games
When: Friday 19 June
Where: Òran Mór
Few bands channel the eclectic energy of Scottish jazz quite like Fat-Suit. This high-octane collective brings together jazz, funk, folk and electronica — and for one night only, they’re reimagining the music of iconic video games.
From Zelda and Final Fantasy to Mario Kart and Sonic, expect clever arrangements, danceable grooves, and pure nostalgia.
“Fat-Suit shows often turn into the festival’s liveliest parties,” says Jill. “Leave your inhibitions at the door — and dance!”
Modern Vikings
When: Sunday 22 June
Where: Saint Lukes
Cinematic, energetic, and deeply emotive, Modern Vikings are part of Scotland’s new wave of jazz. Their debut album Tales of the Skald blends folk melodies with extended improvisation — and their live shows are immersive, powerful, and far from traditional.
Led by drummer and composer Stephen Henderson, and featuring stars like Fergus McCreadie and Konrad Wiszniewski, this is one to experience with your whole body.
“Modern Vikings are all about pushing boundaries,” says Jill. “This isn’t your standard jazz quintet.”
Brian Jackson
When: Friday 20 June
Where: Saint Luke’s
A true jazz and soul pioneer, Brian Jackson brings decades of influence to Saint Luke’s. His iconic collaborations with Gil Scott-Heron helped shape political soul-jazz — and his solo work continues to inspire.
Opening the night is Gaïa, an emerging voice blending RnB, neo-soul and jazz.
“We’re over the moon to have Brian Jackson on the bill,” says Jill. “Get there early to catch Gaïa — she’s incredible.”
Sound Explorers: Children’s Music Workshop
When: Saturday 21 June
Where: Glasgow Royal Concert Hall, The Green Room
Bringing the joy of jazz to the next generation, Sue McKenzie’s Sound Explorers is a hands-on, interactive workshop for children. Glasgow-born McKenzie helps little ones explore rhythm, instruments and sound in a playful, creative way.
It’s the perfect way to introduce kids to live music — and share the fun of the festival with the whole family.
For the full line-up and tickets, head to jazzfest.co.uk.
