JAKARTA – The legendary Jazz Goes To Campus (JGTC) returns in 2026 with a fresh and exciting format. This year, organizers introduce The City Series to blend musical performances with educational discussions. The event takes place on April 25, 2026, at the Teater Besar, Taman Ismail Marzuki, Jakarta.
A Reflective Start with Cultural Icons
The festival opens at 6:30 PM with an engaging talk show session. This discussion features famous figures like actor and Jakarta Vice Governor Rano Karno alongside musician Candra Darusman. Other speakers include Chico Hindarto, Sri Hanuraga, and Agus S. Basuni. Together, they will explore the theme of reaching 50 years of JGTC and their hopes for the future. Therefore, the audience gains a deeper perspective before the music actually starts.
Moderator Kepra Prasetyo will guide the conversation through several important topics. The panel plans to discuss the long journey of JGTC and the public’s changing views on jazz. Furthermore, they will examine how jazz mixes with local identities, including Betawi culture. This session also celebrates the upcoming 50th anniversary of the festival and the 500th anniversary of Jakarta. Because of these milestones, the talk show holds a special significance for the city’s creative ecosystem.
Grand Collaborations on the Main Stage
Following the discussion, a star-studded concert begins. This main event showcases special collaborations between famous arrangers such as Erwin Gutawa and Tohpati. Ari Renaldi and Adra Karim also join this elite group of musical directors. Additionally, the Bandung Jazz Orchestra provides the grand musical backdrop for the evening. These masters aim to create a performance that feels both massive and personal at the same time.
Vocalists Alonzo and Rose Maryjane will lead the big band performance with their powerful voices. Meanwhile, the production team uses modern visual art to enhance the atmosphere. The concert features cross-genre arrangements to keep the music inclusive for younger generations. Because the show emphasizes an interactive experience, fans will feel a close connection to the artists on stage.
The new format marks a bold step for the festival. Through this initiative, JGTC wants to reach a wider and more diverse audience. It positions jazz as a vital part of the city’s daily rhythm rather than just a niche genre. Even as the festival grows, it remains committed to its artistic roots.
As reported by Wawan Diananto of liputan6.com
