19th – 21st July 2024
ABOUT THE COMPETITION
Jazz in the Park Competition is a music contest dedicated to emerging jazz artists, offering them the chance to perform in front of an international jury, gain exposure, and win financial support for their careers. The competition takes place in Cluj-Napoca, Romania, from September 18 to 20, 2026, and is part of the broader Jazz in the Park ecosystem.
WHY JOIN?
- Perform live in a festival setting alongside fellow talented musicians
- Get feedback from an international jury of industry professionals
- Win cash prizes and performance opportunities
- Expand your network and connect with festival organizers, agents, and fellow musicians
IMPORTANT DATES
Applications open:
March 24, 2026
Application deadline:
May 3, 2026
Preselection results announced:
May 21, 2026
WHO CAN APPLY?
Musicians aged 16-35 (one band member
can be over 35).Focusing on jazz and music genres in this spectre
No admission fee required!
SELECTION PROCESS
*The finalists are selected based on criterias listed in the regulations.
12 finalist bands* will be selected to perform live in Cluj-Napoca.
Each band receives €1,000 fee for participation.
Travel & accommodation costs will be partially covered.
PRIZES
- 1st Prize: €6,000 + invitation to perform at Jazz in the Park 2027 (€4.000 contract, including accommodation and transport) + performance at the 2027 Jazz in the Park Competition closing (€3,000 contract, including accommodation and transport)
- 2nd Prize: €3,500
- 3rd Prize: €1,500
- Best Romanian Band: €1,500 + invitation to perform at Jazz in the Park 2027 (€3,000 contract, including accommodation and transport), production of an album, a vinyl and its distribution, and the production of a music video.
- Best Original Composition: €500
- Three (3) Special Mentions for outstanding musicianship: €500 each
- Audience Award: €1,000
FESTIVAL SUPPORT
• Full technical and logistical support to ensure great performances.
• Opportunities to network and showcase talent to an engaged audience.
• A chance to explore Cluj-Napoca, a city with a vibrant cultural scene.
JOIN US IN CLUJ!
This is more than just a competition – it’s a launchpad for the next generation of jazz musicians. Whether you want to challenge yourself, gain recognition, or simply perform in a beautiful setting. Apply now and see you in September!
For applications and more details, visit www.jazzinthepark.ro
See YOU IN
Jazz in the Park Competition is a three-day international music competition for emerging jazz artists, held every year in Cluj-Napoca, Romania.
It’s a chance to perform in front of an international jury and a real, engaged audience and to walk away with financial support, visibility, and opportunities that actually move careers forward.
This year’s edition takes place September 18-20, 2026, in Central Park, Cluj-Napoca, as part of the broader Jazz in the Park ecosystem.
Jazz in the Park Competition 2026: registrations have started
A competition that feels just like a festival
