Gărâna Jazz Festival – July 12, 2026
Sunday’s finale at the Gărână festival was a fitting conclusion to the 30th anniversary edition. Michal S. spotted Rebekka and Eivind at the entrance to Wolf’s Meadow, and we eagerly looked forward to their performance as the festival’s grand finale. In the next photo, you can see a list of performers from previous editions of the festival.
And also an imaginative painting depicting the many artists who have performed on stage at the Gărâna Jazz Festival over its thirty-year history.
Liviu Butoi Quartet (Liviu Butoi – saxophone and flute, David Patrois – vibraphone, Chris Dahlgren – double bass, Edward Perraud – drums) kicked off their set in a very abstract vein. Gradually, however, they worked their way towards a wonderfully free ‘old-school’ style, and the concert grew increasingly compelling as it went on.
Julien Lourau & Bojan Z (Julien Lourau – saxophones, Bojan Z – piano and Fender Rhodes) put on a very successful duo performance after the rain. Bojan made brilliant use of percussive techniques on stage, playing directly on the piano lid, which only served to highlight their tight musical rapport.
The finale belonged to Rebekka Bakken and her project Nord. Intimate Nordic jazz, folk melodies and traditional church hymns she heard during her childhood served as inspiration for Rebekka’s album. However, the set did not consist solely of tracks from the album; older songs and covers found their place too.
Poiana Lupului (Wolf’s Meadow) was quieter than ever; even the surrounding countryside seemed to resonate with what was unfolding on stage. It was a hypnotic, captivating and utterly enchanting performance that had the power to draw the entire audience into its world.
The 30th anniversary edition of the Gărâna Jazz Festival was once again a great success. A huge thank you to the organisers and all those involved for the extraordinary musical experiences! And although this was my fourth visit to Gărâna, I’m sure it won’t be my last. Perhaps we’ll meet again next year.
Štítky