Generations in Jazz

Mount Gambier is well known for a popular Jazz event known as Generations in Jazz, with the next festival being held in May 2026.

Generations in Jazz holds a special place in Australia’s jazz culture. Here, one generation of brilliant musicians inspires the next, and aspiring musicians get a taste of life as professional musicians. It’s where like-minded individuals gather to learn from each other, study, and perform.

Generations in Jazz has been hailed as one of Australia’s most exemplary youth music events, nurturing and supporting the musicians of tomorrow and today.

​The festival’s vision is to become one of Australia’s leading jazz education events, providing a platform for competition, performances, collaboration, education, and engagement. While the festival’s early focus was on big bands, and it remains true to its core, its scope has also broadened to include the highly successful vocal ensemble and small jazz combo divisions.

Generations in Jazz offers a wonderful opportunity to listen, perform, and develop a genuine appreciation for this wonderful art form while becoming a part of a commitment to furthering jazz in Australia and beyond.

​The National Stage Band Awards and Vocal Ensemble Awards take learning out of the classroom and onto the stage, providing young musicians with the ‘next step’ in their performing and music journey.

​The learning opportunities throughout the festival can be structured and informal, whether providing industry insights on the journey between rehearsal venues or the casual advice shared in the green room.

Festival Pass

Experience the full spectrum of the Generations in Jazz Festival with the exclusive Festival Pass! Running from Friday, May 1st to Sunday, May 3rd, this all-access pass grants you entry to every concert, school competition, and scholarship presentation throughout the festival weekend. Immerse yourself in the world of jazz as talented young musicians from across the globe compete, perform, and inspire.

With the Festival Pass, you’ll enjoy a seat to the next generation of jazz stars and unforgettable performances from headlining acts.

​Saturday Day Pass

Enjoy a full day of world-class jazz with the Saturday Day Pass at the Generations in Jazz Festival! On Saturday, May 2nd, from 7am to 6pm, experience a dynamic lineup of performances, including the talented City of Mount Gambier National Stage Band and the District Council of Grant Vocal Ensemble.

Held across the Generations in Jazz Festival Precinct, this all-day pass grants you access to incredible school competitions and electrifying performances from the brightest young jazz talents.

Scholarship Adjudication No 2

Don’t miss Scholarship Adjudication No. 2 on Saturday, May 2nd, at The Barn Palais, starting at 3pm. This thrilling event showcases the remarkable talent of emerging jazz musicians as they compete for coveted scholarships.

Watch as these young artists give their all in front of a distinguished panel of adjudicators, demonstrating their skill, creativity, and passion for jazz. It’s an inspiring opportunity to witness the future of jazz in its most exciting, raw form—an afternoon you won’t want to miss!