University Concert Hall to host next gen cohort in the fledgling stage. They might be giants
Hosted by Limerick Jazz, the competition has become a platform for emerging jazz talent across Ireland, showcasing the next generation of performers in front of a live audience and an expert judging panel. Finalists will perform alongside a professional house band as they compete for the 2026 title.
Since launching in 2022, Young Irish Jazz Musician has already helped shine a spotlight on some exceptional young artists. The inaugural winner, Nils Kavanagh from Sligo, went on to complete a national tour, become Young Artist in Residence at the Sligo Jazz Festival and reach the finals of BBC Young Jazz Musician in 2024. His album No Expectations was included in marlbank‘s top Irish jazz albums of 2025.
The 2024 award was won by fellow Sligo pianist Rory Conneally, who has since secured a full scholarship to Berklee in Boston, the numero uno spot for jazz ed in the States.
The winner of Young Irish Jazz Musician 2026 will receive a €1,000 bursary to support their musical development through further study, recording or live performance opportunities. They will also be invited to perform at the acclaimed Limerick Jazz Festival which takes place in September each year.
Open to Irish musicians aged between 16 and 23, the competition also offers valuable experience for secondary school students studying improvised music as part of Junior Cycle and Senior Cycle music programmes.
Applications and further details are available through Limerick Jazz.
