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History

  • 1991

    The Langnau Jazz Nights began as a training week for aspiring jazz musicians. The event was founded by bassist and jazz musician Walter Schmocker, who has continued to shape it over the years through his dedication and extensive international network, built during his career as a professional musician abroad. Originally launched as a Master Class for Jazz Improvisation, the program was later renamed the Jazz Workshop to reflect the growing participation of non-professional musicians.

    1996

    The Junior Jazz Workshop is held for the first time, offering young musicians the opportunity to learn from renowned Swiss music educators and participate in workshop bands.

    The Langnau Jazz Nights Association is officially founded.

    1997

    Due to growing demand for the workshops, the facilities of the Oberemmental Music School are used for the first time. Additionally, the increasingly significant concerts are now held at Langnau's Kupferschmiede.

    2000

    The Langnau Jazz Nights Association receives the Emmental Culture Prize from the Pro Emmental Association.

    Starting this year, the Verein zur Förderung der Langnau Jazz Nights has supported the event to ensure it continues to be held at a high musical standard.

    2003

    Initiator Walter Schmocker is honored with a cultural award from the Canton of Bern in recognition of his tireless efforts to support young musicians.

    The Int. Junior Jazz Meeting is held for the first time on the Viehmarktplatz open-air stage, showcasing talented young bands. 

    2005

    The Viehmarktplatz (town square) located in the heart of Langnau becomes the new festival hub.

    2006

    Der grafische Auftritt der Langnau Jazz Nights wird in Partnerschaft mit Schweizer Hochschulen umgesetzt. Anlässlich eines Wettbewerbes können Design-Studierende ihre Vorschläge einer Jury vorlegen, welche eine der Arbeiten prämiert und für das jeweils kommende Festival auswählt. 2012 und 2013 muss dieser Wettbewerb ausgesetzt werden. Für das Festival 2015 nehmen Studierende der Zürcher Hochschule der Künste (ZHdK) teil.

    2007

    The Langnau Jazz Nights are honored with the Culture Prize of the Canton of Bern. This award acknowledges the event's ongoing dedication to promoting emerging jazz musicians, its long-standing commitment to providing a platform for contemporary jazz outside urban centers, and its impactful role in fostering sustainable connections and networking within the jazz community.

    2010

    The Langnau Jazz Nights are honored with the BärnerJugendTag Sponsorship Prize for their outstanding commitment to supporting young talent over the years.

    2014

    The festival is awarded the first cultural prize of the municipality of Langnau.

    2015

    The Langnau Jazz Nights celebrate their 25th anniversary with a program full of highlights and unprecedented attendance.

    2018

    The most successful year of Langnau Jazz Nights to date with over 2100 visitors.

    2020 / 2021

    The festival cannot take place due to the Covid pandemic.

    2022

    The 30th edition of the festival takes place.

    2024

    The Langnau Jazz Nights set a new attendance record! 

LANGNAU JAZZ NIGHTS

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