D'Jazz Nevers Festival

D'Jazz Nevers Festival: A European Jazz Institution

Since 1987, the D'Jazz Nevers Festival has set the rhythm of autumn in Nevers to the sound of jazz in all its forms. Born from the desire to create an event of international scope in Burgundy, this festival quickly established itself as a must-visit destination for jazz lovers in France and Europe.

A Rich History of Nearly Four Decades

Created under the name "Rencontres internationales D'Jazz de Nevers," the festival has evolved while retaining its strong artistic identity. In 2023, it merged with the Regional Center for Jazz in Bourgogne-Franche-Comté to give birth to Big Bang, the structure that now manages the festival and works to promote jazz throughout the region. A member of the AJC and France Festival networks, the D'Jazz Nevers Festival has been accredited "Europe for Festivals, Festivals for Europe" (EFFE) since 2015, testifying to its continental recognition.

A Demanding and Eclectic Program

Each edition offers a panorama of contemporary French, European, and international jazz production, blending established artists and emerging talents. From traditional jazz to the most daring improvised music, the festival explores the full richness of the genre through concerts, artist residencies, film screenings, and encounters. The approximately 150 artists invited each year perform in about forty concerts spread over eight days.

Iconic Venues

The concerts take place in several prestigious venues in Nevers and its surroundings:

• La Maison (main hall): 2 boulevard Pierre de Coubertin, Nevers
• Théâtre municipal: Place des Reines de Pologne, Nevers
• Café Charbon: 10 rue Mademoiselle Bourgeois, Nevers
• Espace des Saules: Allée Pierre de Coubertin, Coulanges-lès-Nevers

A Popular and Accessible Festival

The D'Jazz Nevers Festival is distinguished by its conviviality and accessibility. In addition to ticketed concerts, the festival offers free events, artist meet-and-greets, and exhibitions, making this week a true cultural highlight for the entire city of Nevers and its surrounding area. With around 10,000 spectators each year, the festival significantly contributes to the cultural and economic dynamism of the territory.

A Prestigious Legacy

Throughout its editions, the D'Jazz Nevers Festival has hosted legends of world jazz on its stages: Nina Simone, Michel Petrucciani, Stéphane Grappelli, Chet Baker, Enrico Rava, and many others. This history illustrates the festival's constant ambition: to offer the public a top-level program in an intimate and warm setting.