This latest La Vida Liverpool review is of Liverpool International Jazz Festival 2026, courtesy of David Murrell…..
The annual Liverpool International Jazz Festival has an emphasis on contemporary instrumental jazz and the 2026 event — its 13th to date — was simply sensational, with 14 events showcasing both international and local talent, in a week-long programme.
The main events featured international stars at The Capstone Theatre — on Liverpool Hope University’s Creative Campus — a popular, purpose built modern venue which has excellent acoustics and can accommodate up to 250 people. The 2026 event ran from Thursday 26th February until Sunday 1st March, whilst the festival fringe ran at various venues across the city centre.
I attended two notable performances selected from the many at this year’s festival, serving to illustrate both the true diversity of Jazz music and the excellence of performing artists. First, on Saturday evening, was Robert Mitchell’s Little Black Book – a powerful trio of keyboards, guitar and drums – who gave a bravura and driving performance on a two-hour set to an appreciative audience. Fusion, psychedelic blues and multi-media trips imaginatively bound together, all showed great diversity in Mitchell’s latest project.
And on Sunday lunchtime, at the other end of the Jazz spectrum, was award-winning Martin Taylor MBE delivering a world-class, solo jazz guitar performance. Relaxed, affable, and with brief introductions for each piece. A truly outstanding, masterful player and stage performer whose easy, note perfect style reflected his internationally recognised ability. Much appreciated by a near full house at The Capstone.
Creative Director of the festival, Neil Campbell said: “In 1919, Liverpool became the first city to welcome jazz onto UK shores and in 2026 it’s thriving more than ever thanks to this incredible extravaganza. The city will be able to experience top drawer local and international acts over multiple events for a fantastic price.“ I concur!
The festival was founded in 2013 by Liverpool Hope University, and the Creative Campus continues to host this eclectic event each year. Whether you are a jazz enthusiast or newcomer, the diverse programme promises something for everyone.
Liverpool International Jazz Festival / Fri 21st Feb — Sun 1st March 2026 / The Capstone Theatre, 17 Shaw Street, Liverpool, L6 1HP / Fringe Festival across various venues
Images courtesy of Alan Smith
