London’s vibrant heart, Soho, comes alive with the rhythm of jazz for five days in September. The Soho Jazz Festival, running from September 10–14, 2025, will feature over 40 performances across more than 15 venues, showcasing over 100 talented jazz musicians. Transforming this iconic district into a veritable ‘jazz village,’ we’ve rounded up the festival’s most exciting highlights for you.
Music, Art, and Mysterious Collaborations
Among the performers is Frazer Smith, who goes beyond being just a saxophonist, channeling the vocal styles of legends like Frank Sinatra and Chet Baker. He’ll showcase his dual talents with the Frazer Smith Quartet at Archer Street. Singer, writer, and poet Julia Titus will bring the stage presence of the great Bessie Smith to life with Ma Bessie’s Blues at Cafe Boheme, accompanied by pianist George Webster. The KOKO Collective, meanwhile, will document the evolution of jazz with their musical journey If I Could Write a Book at Foyles bookstore.
One of the festival’s most thrilling elements is the Secret Sessions. Promising “surprise guests, underground energy, and unannounced collaborations behind closed doors,” these exclusive sessions are available only to all-access ticket holders. Additionally, a vintage double-decker bus will tour Soho, hosting roaming jazz concerts. The Jazz World Photo Awards exhibition captures the spirit, passion, and energy of artists on and off the stage. And, as a curious addition, there’s even a Soho Jazz Cafe Artist Showcase on Roblox—while we’re not entirely sure how it works, it certainly sounds intriguing!
