Feb 06: The 9th edition of the Jazz India Circuit concluded this February, bringing together leading Indian and international jazz artists for a vibrant celebration of contemporary jazz across Bengaluru and Mumbai. Produced by Teamwork Arts, the Circuit once again showcased genre-defying performances, multi-genre collaborations, and immersive live experiences that pushed the boundaries of jazz for today’s audiences.
Headlining Jazz India Circuit 2026 across both cities was the internationally acclaimed Benny Greb Brass Band.
Fronted by world-renowned drummer Benny Greb named by Batterie magazine as one of the Top 30 Greatest Drummers of the 21st Century. The band delivered intricate rhythmic compositions and an improvisation-driven sound that captivated audiences. An ECHO Jazz Award recipient with his band Moving Parts, Greb brought a formidable global presence to the Circuit, having performed at major festivals and venues worldwide.
The tour opened in Bengaluru on 4 February at Fandom at Gilly’s Redefined, featuring Derek & The Cats alongside the Benny Greb Brass Band. Led by Bengaluru-based musician Derek Mathias, the ensemble blended jazz, funk, and house into high-energy instrumental dance music, setting the tone for the Circuit’s dynamic journey.
On 5 February, the Circuit travelled to Mumbai,
culminating at the iconic Royal Opera House, where Jazzafools joined the Benny Greb Brass Band for an evening of groove-led, improvisation-heavy jazz. Known for their distinctive mix of jazz, neo-soul, R&B, and funk, Jazzafools sparked an engaging dialogue between Indian and international jazz sensibilities driven by rhythm, spontaneity, and shared musical language.
Commenting on the 2026 edition, Avik Roy, Festival Producer, Jazz India Circuit, said,
“Jazz India Circuit has always been about expanding the idea of what jazz can be in today’s world. The 2026 edition brought together artists who are redefining the genre through fearless experimentation, deep groove, and cross-cultural dialogue. As the Circuit travelled across cities, it offered audiences the chance to experience jazz in its most alive form – improvised, immersive, and meant to be heard live.”
Continuing its association with the festival, The Glenlivet – the Original Speyside Single Malt partnered with Jazz India Circuit 2026 in a shared celebration of originality and craft-led excellence. With a legacy rooted in setting higher standards in single malt whisky, The Glenlivet mirrored the spirit of jazz, evolving with time while staying true to its foundations. The partnership championed innovation, collaboration, and contemporary expression shaped by authenticity and individuality.
The festival was supported by Meinl across both editions, with Furtados providing backline support for the Mumbai leg of the Circuit.
Further strengthening the festival’s partner ecosystem, Vedica joined as the Hydration Partner for Jazz India Circuit 2026, supporting the high-energy tour by ensuring artists and audiences stayed refreshed throughout the Circuit.
The celebration continues with two additional evenings of jazz in Gurugram on 7th and 8th February at DLF Horizon Plaza, where the Circuit will spotlight experimental and cross-cultural jazz performances, including sets by the Federica Colangelo Trio featuring B.C. Manjunath and the Benny Greb Brass Band, culminating in dynamic showcases that blend jazz, electronics and improvisation.