The vibrant rhythms of jazz are once again set to fill the lush landscapes of Ubud as STHALA Ubud Village Jazz Festival (UVJF) 2026 returns on 7–8 August 2026 at STHALA Ubud Bali, A Tribute Portfolio Hotel. Entering its 13th edition, the festival continues to strengthen its reputation as one of Southeast Asia’s most respected boutique jazz festivals, where internationally acclaimed musicians, emerging talents, and passionate audiences gather to celebrate music without borders.
Founded in 2013, Ubud Village Jazz Festival has grown beyond a music event into a cultural platform that embraces artistic collaboration, education, and community engagement. This year’s program once again showcases a diverse blend of contemporary jazz, straight-ahead jazz, jazz fusion, big band traditions, and cross-cultural musical explorations from artists representing Indonesia and countries across Asia and Europe.
International Collaboration Meets Indonesian Excellence
The 2026 lineup features an impressive roster of performers, including H ZETTRIO from Japan, Watchdog from France, Simone Prattico Java Collective, Pong Nakornchai Ensemble, Straight and Stretch Quartet, Salamander Big Band, Strings Corner Project, Imelda Rosalin Quintet, Dodot Trio, and many more. Each performance reflects the festival’s vision of connecting different musical cultures through jazz.
Among this year’s featured performers is Simone Prattico Java Collective, led by Italian drummer and composer Simone Prattico alongside acclaimed Indonesian musicians Sri Hanuraga (Aga) on piano and Kevin Yosua on bass. Their performance blends Mediterranean influences with Indonesian musical sensibilities, creating a unique contemporary jazz experience.
For Prattico, returning to Ubud Village Jazz Festival is more than another performance—it is a meaningful artistic homecoming.
Having previously performed at the festival, he described UVJF as an event with a unique creative atmosphere that leaves a lasting impression. Beyond the performances themselves, he values the opportunity to reconnect with fellow musicians and witness the extraordinary depth of Indonesia’s musical talent.
Now living in Indonesia and learning Bahasa Indonesia, Prattico shared that what continues to inspire him is not only the remarkable technical ability of Indonesian musicians but also the authenticity behind their artistry.
“I feel that the musicians and artists here create because they genuinely need to create. Their expression feels honest, direct, and deeply authentic. That’s something truly special.”
He believes festivals like UVJF play an essential role in introducing Indonesia’s remarkable musicians to wider international audiences while encouraging artistic collaboration that transcends borders.
A Stage for Indonesia’s Next Generation of Jazz
Beyond welcoming internationally renowned performers, Ubud Village Jazz Festival remains deeply committed to nurturing young Indonesian musicians.
According to Yuri Mahatma, Co-founder of Ubud Village Jazz Festival, Indonesia possesses countless young jazz talents waiting for opportunities to shine on the global stage.
While internationally celebrated pianist Joey Alexander has become a symbol of Indonesian jazz excellence, Yuri believes there are many more gifted musicians ready to follow in his footsteps.
This year’s festival reflects that commitment by presenting promising young artists such as Rason Trio, featuring 14-year-old guitarist Rason, alongside the teenage ensemble JZ.KA Trio—young musicians already demonstrating remarkable musical maturity despite their age.
Yuri emphasized that regeneration is a shared responsibility among musicians, festival organizers, audiences, and the entire jazz community.
“If we don’t introduce and promote Indonesian musicians to the world, then who will?”
He also highlighted how many countries actively support their musicians through cultural institutions and government programs, enabling them to participate in international festivals. This year’s edition welcomes several artists whose participation is made possible through collaborations with organizations such as Erasmus Huis, Institut Français Indonésie, and other international cultural institutions.
Yuri hopes Indonesia can continue strengthening its own support system so that more local musicians can represent the country’s rich cultural identity on global stages.
More Than a Festival
Beyond its world-class performances, Ubud Village Jazz Festival continues to serve as a meeting point where musicians, audiences, and cultures connect through a shared appreciation for creativity.
Visitors can also enjoy a series of pre-event performances ahead of the main festival. On 5 August, The Apurva Kempinski Bali will host performances by Dattie Duo with Warman Sanjaya and Sinuksma alongside Pong Nakornchai Ensemble, while The Meru Sanur welcomes Jadi Peperzak Quartet featuring Kasyfi Kalyasyena on 6 August, offering audiences an exclusive preview of the festival atmosphere.
Set amid Ubud’s lush greenery and rich artistic heritage, STHALA Ubud Village Jazz Festival 2026 promises an unforgettable celebration where music becomes a bridge between cultures, generations, and creative communities.
For jazz enthusiasts, culture seekers, and travelers looking to experience Bali beyond its beaches, this year’s festival offers the perfect opportunity to immerse themselves in one of the island’s most inspiring annual events.
