Gelsenkirchen, a German city synonymous with industrial heritage, takes on an entirely different identity every September. In this historic city of the Ruhr Region, the New Colours Festival takes the stage once again from September 24 to 27, 2026. Four vibrant days tailored specifically for curious minds who refuse to box music into rigid genres…
A Festival Defying Clichés
As its name suggests, the New Colours Festival refuses to be just another run-of-the-mill jazz event. The core philosophy of the organizing team is simple yet bold: not to meet expectations, but to surpass them. This is why every year they bring together seemingly unrelated artists, step beyond conventional concert venues, and offer audiences unexpected sonic pairings.
This year, 13 different acts will perform across 10 distinct venues in Gelsenkirchen. Ranging from the Music Theatre to former mining complexes, churches, and industrial heritage sites, this architectural diversity elevates the festival far beyond a conventional concert experience.
Who Is on Stage?
The festival kicks off on the evening of Wednesday, September 24, at Musiktheater im Revier with the Hanno Busch Quartett & Friends. Recipient of the WDR Jazz Award 2026, German guitarist Hanno Busch possesses a distinct sound that skillfully blends rock and pop elements. Having previously collaborated with Jan Delay and Heavytones, Busch will be joined by numerous guest artists on stage for opening night.
On September 25, against the unique backdrop of the Nordsternturm silhouette, Polish-American artist Ashia Grzesik will enchant music lovers under her stage moniker, Bison Rouge. As a singer, cellist, and composer, Grzesik merges the cello with electronic effects, creating a singular sonic realm bridging classical, pop, and folk traditions.
The double concert taking place on September 26 at stad.bau.raum stands as one of the festival’s most anticipated highlights: Norwegian guitarist Eivind Aarset’s quartet will share the stage with the Hamburg-based Tingvall Trio on the same evening. Formed by Swedish pianist Martin Tingvall alongside a Cuban bassist and a German drummer, the Tingvall Trio is one of Germany’s most beloved and recognized jazz ensembles. Offering a blend of melody and rhythmic complexity, their music is bound to draw a substantial crowd.
The festival’s closing night promises a celebration in the truest sense. On the evening of September 27, a grand finale will unfold at the Heilig Kreuz Kirche with Jazzanova Live feat. Wayne Snow. This juxtaposition between sacred church architecture and electronic beats perfectly encapsulates the spirit of New Colours.
Something for Everyone
The festival caters not only to adults, but to all age groups. Taking the stage on the morning of September 24 at Kunstraum Norten, the PEPE & SPEEDY children’s concert opens the doors of the jazz universe to young music enthusiasts. Meanwhile, Caroll Vanwelden’s workshop on September 25 promises hands-on experience for aspiring musicians.
Why Attend?
Gelsenkirchen might not be the first location that comes to mind as a tourist destination for many. Yet, the New Colours Festival infuses the city with a fresh identity each year. Former industrial heritage sites, colliery towers, and churches swell with jazz, electronic, and world music. This convergence reveals in its purest form how music can transform space.
For tickets and daily schedules: colours-festival.de
New Colours Festival — September 24–27, 2026, Gelsenkirchen
