Baltic countries join forces for the first time, hosting the 'Baltic CLUBNIGHT' during 'jazzahead!' in Bremen

In a powerful display of unity, creativity, and cultural resilience, Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia return to “jazzahead! 2025” with the Baltic Booth – a joint stand representing the region’s most compelling jazz talent and collaborative spirit. The Baltic states will not only exhibit together at the international fair, but also take the spotlight with a joint “Baltic CLUBNIGHT” showcase on April 25 at Zentrum für Kunst as a part of Bremen’s 40-year anniversary of town twinning with Riga, Latvia.

Part of the largest European jazz gathering “jazzahead!”, CLUBNIGHT takes place on Friday evening, featuring approximately 35 concert venues each year. Clubs, bars, theaters, museums, churches, and hotels become lively spots for music. For the first time, the three Baltic nations are co-curating an evening of live performances, offering a rare chance to experience the sonic diversity and bold innovation that defines Baltic jazz today.

According to the event organizers, the path to this collaboration has been long but meaningful. Each country has a distinct jazz identity rooted in history and shaped by modern challenges, so music is a way to overcome and connect. In this time of global tension and shifting cultural landscapes, the Baltic nations are choosing connection over competition. The Baltic Booth stands as a symbol of regional unity and artistic resilience, where improvisation mirrors diplomacy, and sound becomes a language beyond borders.

Baltic CLUBNIGHT program at Zentrum für Kunst, Bremen, on April 25

Hermann-Ritter-Str. 108 E, 28197 Bremen

19:00 – 19:45 Kadri Voorand in Duo With Mihkel Mälgand

Vocalist and pianist Kadri Voorand has refined her art of emotional storytelling into an impactful musical happening, with magical improvisations blending jazz and folk. Her unique artistry has captivated audiences worldwide, from London to Beijing.

19:45 – 20:30 BALTIC RECEPTION

20:30 – 21:15 Matīss Čudars Trio (Latvia)

Brooklyn-based Latvian guitarist and composer Matīss Čudars combines his background in math rock, jazz, country, and contemporary classical music with an ongoing quest for vocal-like melodicism and simplicity.

21:45 – 22:30 Weird Ugly Fish (Lithuania)

A fearless Lithuanian ensemble merging avant-jazz, punk energy, and Baltic folklore into a raw, immersive experience. Genre-redefining performance touches various music influences from free-jazz, krautrock and punk to IDM and even ambient music.

The joint representation is coordinated by Music Estonia and the Estonian Jazz Union with Baltic partners Latvian Music Information Centre and the Lithuanian Jazz Union. Partners of the CLUBNIGHT program are Zentrum für Kunst (ZkR) and Senatskanzlei Bremen (Bremen City Government). The Baltic CLUBNIGHT is a part of the 40th anniversary of the partnership between Riga and Bremen.

CLUBNIGHT tickets available here: https://bit.ly/4c8QQuS