Sydney International Women’s Jazz Festival

The Sydney International Women's Jazz Festival (SIWJF) is marking its landmark 15th anniversary this year, with the festival presenting a diverse line-up of international and Australian artists across Sydney from 22 to 31 October 2026.

Since its inception, the festival has become a vital platform for artistic exchange, innovation, and representation, presenting leading international voices alongside local artists shaping the future of contemporary music.

The 2026 program opens at the State Theatre with jazz icon Dee Dee Bridgewater making her long-awaited return to Australia for a rare duo performance with acclaimed pianist Helen Sung. A multi-GRAMMY Award winner, Tony Award recipient and one of the defining vocalists of her generation, Bridgewater headlines what promises to be one of the most anticipated jazz events of the year.

Over ten days, audiences will encounter some of the most influential voices in contemporary jazz and improvised music. Highlights include GRAMMY Award-winning pianist Kris Davis and her trio in a special double bill with Korean drummer and composer Soojin Suh's Coloris Trio, acclaimed artists Tomeka Reid, aja monet, Belle Chen and Olivia Chindamo, and a special double bill bringing together jazz icon Tina Harrod and singer-songwriter Ruby Jackson. The festival also presents a world-premiere collaboration between Tokyo-based pianist and composer Misaki Umei and Sydney drummer and producer Cracked Suzies. The program culminates with Resonance, an all-women jazz supergroup.