For two days each August, Ubud speaks the universal language of jazz. From 7–8 August 2026, the STHALA Ubud Village Jazz Festival (UVJF) returns to STHALA Ubud Bali, A Tribute Portfolio Hotel, bringing acclaimed musicians from Indonesia and around the world to Bali’s cultural heart.
Now in its 13th edition, the boutique festival has become one of Southeast Asia’s most respected jazz gatherings. It combines intimate performances, artistic exchange, and Ubud’s unmistakable atmosphere, where music feels as natural as the surrounding forests and river valleys.
A Lineup Without Borders
This year’s programme reflects jazz’s remarkable ability to cross cultures. Artists from Indonesia, Japan, Thailand, France, Italy, Vietnam, Singapore, Nepal, the Netherlands, and the United States will perform across two evenings, bringing together contemporary jazz, big band traditions, world music, and fearless improvisation.
Among the festival’s most anticipated performances is H ZETTRIO from Japan. Instantly recognisable by their signature coloured noses, the celebrated trio has earned an international following through dazzling piano virtuosity, infectious rhythms, and playful stage chemistry. Their energetic performances have made them one of Japan’s most distinctive instrumental acts.
Another highlight comes from France with Watchdog, featuring keyboardist Anne Quillier and clarinettist Pierre Horckmans. Their atmospheric compositions blur the line between written music and spontaneous improvisation, creating immersive soundscapes rich in texture and emotion.
Representing Thailand, Pong Nakornchai Ensemble unites musicians from Thailand, Indonesia, and the United States in a contemporary jazz collaboration built around the compositions of soprano saxophonist Joe Rosenberg. Collective improvisation and thoughtful ensemble interplay shape every performance, making each concert feel uniquely alive.
The festival also welcomes the Simone Praticò Java Collective, where acclaimed Italian drummer Simone Praticò joins Indonesian jazz stars Sri Hanuraga and Kevin Yosua. Their music blends Mediterranean influences with Javanese musical traditions, creating an elegant conversation between continents.
Indonesia Takes Centre Stage
Alongside international guests, Indonesia’s vibrant jazz community remains at the heart of the festival.
Guitarist Koko Harsoe joins the Bali-based SAN Trio for a performance shaped by modern jazz and spontaneous improvisation. Meanwhile, the internationally recognised Straight and Stretch Quartet, led by Yuri Mahatma and Astrid Sulaiman, returns with special collaborations featuring Japanese trombonist Masahiko Kitahara, vocalist Dian Pratiwi, and Singaporean singer-songwriter Glen Wee.
Festival favourites also include the powerful Salamander Big Band, one of Indonesia’s longest-running independent jazz orchestras, alongside Strings Corner Project, whose music combines flamenco expression, jazz improvisation, and Nusantara rhythms.
Elsewhere, audiences can discover performances by Imelda Rosalin Quintet, Hanoi vocalist Dattie Do, Bali jazz legend Dodot Trio, and a new generation of local musicians, including LaDju, Michael Ananda Trio, Rason Trio, and JZ.KA Trio. Their presence reflects UVJF’s enduring commitment to nurturing Indonesia’s next wave of jazz artists.
The Music Begins Before Ubud
The festival’s rhythm starts before opening night with two exclusive warm-up events along Bali’s southern coast.
On 5 August, The Apurva Kempinski Bali hosts a seaside prelude at The Reef Beach Club, featuring Dattie Duo with Warman Sanjaya and Sinuksma, alongside the Pong Nakornchai Ensemble.
The following evening, 6 August, The Meru Sanur presents Seaside Jazz Mantra at Roso Restaurant. Guests can enjoy the Jadi Peperzak Quartet featuring Kasyfi Kalyasyena, paired with an elegant dining experience overlooking Sanur Beach.
Together, these pre-festival performances set the tone for a week where music travels across Bali, connecting the island’s coastline with the artistic soul of Ubud.
More than a festival, STHALA Ubud Village Jazz Festival 2026 celebrates creativity, collaboration, and cultural exchange. It offers travellers another reason to visit Ubud, where world-class performances unfold in one of Southeast Asia’s most inspiring destinations.
Visit: ubudvillagejazzfestival.com
