Jazzbühne Lech, Lech am Arlberg, Vorarlberg, 12-16 August
Could this be the jazz festival at the highest altitude? At 1450 metres, Lech is known for being a stunning resort. Add to this the new Dorfhus (LechWelten), an incredible quality concert hall finished last year, there is the perfect location to enjoy the jazz after a day hiking. Jazzbuehne has been running for over 10 years, programmed with love by local resident Philip Waldhart.
The aim is to „present outstanding musicians in an intimate atmosphere and amidst the impressive mountain landscape“.
Each year there are a range of musicians from across Europe, such as from Azerbaijan (solo pianist Abuzar Manafzade) and Finland (Ida Alanen Trio), balanced with a couple of bigger names, often with a connection to ECM. That link this year is Dutch pianist Rembrandt Frerichs. The other well-known name is German trumpeter Sebastian Studnitzky with Andrii Pokaz on the first night. One band a night, with Austrian wine to match the quality of the music.