BJC 18! - IFJ. SZAKCSI LAKATOS BÉLA TRIO & EAST GIPSY BAND

BJC 18!

Following its launch in 2007, the Budapest Jazz Club quickly became a defining meeting point and a vibrant cultural hub on the map of the capital. This is due, among other things, to its series featuring world-class artists and its Europe-unique free Jam Session nights, held five times a week. Alongside these two flagship series, the club’s coming-of-age year also included the Encore! series of music-centered evenings spotlighting well-known Hungarian actors, as well as monthly Sunday programs featuring musical, theatre, and family events on the club’s stage.

 

Naturally, jazz has remained at the core of the club’s profile. This is clearly reflected in the fact that in 2025 alone, audiences were able to experience more than 650 concerts, featuring both emerging and established representatives of the genre — from formations made up of young musicians from the Liszt Ferenc Academy of Music, through the most renowned Hungarian performers, to large-scale big band concerts. The worthy celebration of the 18th birthday and the festival atmosphere traditionally associated with such an occasion will be ensured by two outstanding Hungarian jazz formations, followed by a Jam Session after the concerts.

 

20:00 – Ifj. Szakcsi Lakatos Béla Trio

One of the most influential jazz pianists of the younger generation, Ifj. Szakcsi Lakatos Béla arrives at the birthday celebration with his latest trio. His playing is characterized by a rich harmonic language, strong technical confidence, and deep respect for tradition, while at the same time embodying the fresh perspective of contemporary jazz. The trio’s program is a worthy continuation of a musical legacy that is closely intertwined with the history of the Budapest Jazz Club.

21:30 – East Gipsy Band

 

The East Gipsy Band blends jazz with Roma musical traditions and contemporary improvisation. Their music is both passionate and refined, where virtuosity and deep emotional intensity form a natural unity. The ensemble is a regular performer on both Hungarian and international stages, and the special atmosphere of their concerts is guaranteed to create memorable moments at the BJC birthday celebration as well.

 

22:30 – Nagy Iván Classic Jam feat. Tamás Bényei & Béla Szalóky

In this special jam session, Nagy Iván selects from the most well-known pieces of the genre’s traditional decades, spanning from Harlem Stride to the Swing era, and has invited two star guests to join him for the occasion.

 

Date: 10 January 2026, 20:00
Tickets: Free admission!

 

The 250-slice birthday cake will be provided by Végvári Confectioneries.

 

 

With the support of the National Cultural Fund of Hungary (NKA).