Bunjil Place - Melbourne International Jazz Festival

Bunjil Place

Each year, one new project developed at Bunjil Place will be supported to premiere at the Melbourne International Jazz Festival, creating opportunities for artists to develop ambitious new work and build global connections.

The October program includes:

Making its world premiere, Saltwater Sugar by the Australian Art Orchestra blends jazz and hip hop in a large ensemble work exploring the history of people and place. Featuring award-winning R&B vocalist Ngaiire and hip hop artist Joelistics, the performance offers a contemporary take on jazz through powerful storytelling and genre-crossing collaboration.

Created in partnership with Jazz at Lincoln Center in New York, Young Monk celebrates the music and legacy of jazz pioneer Thelonious Monk. Featuring Grammy-nominated pianist Joey Alexander, the project brings together emerging Melbourne musicians and one of jazz's leading young artists to reimagine Monk's influential compositions for contemporary audiences.
One of South Africa's most respected and influential hip hop artists, Stogie T, will make a rare Australian appearance and lead a workshop for aspiring artists, creating opportunities for connection, learning and creative exchange.

Together, these events showcase the many forms jazz can take, weaving together influences from soul, hip hop, R&B and contemporary music while connecting local audiences with artists from around the world.

"Young Monk: International Edition"
Date & Time: Saturday 17 October 2026
7:30pm - 9:00pm
Venue: Bunjil Place Studio

"The Art of MCing with Stogie T"
Date & Time: Tuesday 20 October 2026
6:00pm - 7:00pm
Venue: Bunjil Place Studio

"Saltwater, Sugar"
Date & Time: Wednesday 21 October 2026
7:30pm - 9:00pm
Venue: Bunjil Place Theatre