JAZZ ACADEMY BAND 2025
Twenty-four international artists will join the official programmation of JAZZ IN MACAO FESTIVAL 2025.
We cast the worldwide best performers.
Six months of intensive rehearsals from September 2024 until March 2025.
The unique Jazz Academy Band gathers the best Jazz Artists.
The best jazz performances are only at the JAZZ IN MACAO FESTIVAL 2025.
Unique Band, unique Festival, unique Experience.
Local talent musicians will join the Open Scene.
Isabelle GEORGES – Vocalist
Isabelle Georges, a radiant force in music, brings her joyful blend of musical genres to the JAZZ IN MACAO Festival 2025. With a voice that reaches for the stars, Isabelle’s artistic journey spans Theatre, French chansons, Classical Music, and beyond. From starring in award-winning musicals to creating captivating shows, Isabelle’s creativity knows no bounds, making her a cherished artist on the global stage. Join us for an enchanting evening as Isabelle Georges adds her magical touch to the rich tapestry of jazz.
Concerts: Latin Brazil Jazz – Swing – Jazz in Movie – Early Jazz – Afro-Cuban – Acid Jazz – Electro Swing.
Coco ZHAO 赵可 – Vocalist
Coco Zhao, one of China’s most innovative voices in jazz, brings a unique blend of Chinese traditional and Western modern music to the JAZZ IN MACAO Festival 2025. As a composer, lyricist, and poet, Coco has explored the possibilities of jazz within both Chinese and Western cultural contexts. Recognized as “China’s most promising young Jazz musician,” Coco’s international journey includes collaborations with Grammy winners, performances at prestigious festivals, and a rich discography, making him a vital force in contemporary jazz. Don’t miss the chance to experience Coco Zhao’s artistry at the festival.
Concerts: Chinese Jazz – Bebop.
Sharon, 陈冰 – Vocalist
A certified teacher at the MI Conservatory of Music in the United States, Chen Bin has become a prominent figure in the jazz circles of Beijing and Guangzhou. With mentorship from jazz luminaries like Professor Ling Qingyun and Simona, Chen Bin’s journey includes performances at esteemed festivals and venues, marking her as a notable presence in the jazz scene.
Concerts: Latin Brazil Jazz – Swing – Jazz in Movie – Early Jazz – Afro-Cuban – Acid Jazz – Electro Swing.
Betchy BARROS – Vocalist
Betchy Barros, a soulful singer and songwriter from Macau, embodies the essence of a neo-soul artist with influences from renowned musicians like Erykah Badu, Alicia Keys, Tina Turner, and more. Fluent in four languages, she began her musical journey in traditional West African music at fifteen. She showcased her versatility by engaging in session work with various artists and participating in many international events. Graduating with a BA(Hons) degree in Professional Music Performance from the Academy of Contemporary Music in London in 2020, Betchy has since graced diverse stages worldwide, from jazz bars in Macau to international festivals and cultural events, leaving an indelible mark with her captivating performances across genres like soul, neo-soul, reggae, jazz, blues, Latin, West African, Brazilian, and contemporary music.
Concerts: Latin Brazil Jazz – Swing – Jazz in Movie – Early Jazz – Afro-Cuban – Acid Jazz – Electro Swing.
Yaya – Vocalist
Yaya, a highly skilled and versatile professional singer with over a decade of experience, brings her soulful and captivating voice to the enchanting jazz world at JAZZ IN MACAO, charming audiences with her mastery of vocal techniques and a diverse musical repertoire. With a rich history of accolades and performances in prestigious venues, Yaya is a prominent figure in the regional jazz scene, offering a soul-stirring experience at the festival.
Concerts: Latin Brazil Jazz – Swing – Jazz in Movie – Early Jazz – Afro-Cuban – Acid Jazz – Electro Swing.
Stefan KARLSSON – Pianist
Stefan Karlsson, a Swedish-born jazz pianist, composer, and educator, embarked on his musical journey at the University of North Texas (UNT) in 1984, later earning accolades such as the “Outstanding Graduate Student in Jazz Studies Award.” His extensive career includes a three-year recording contract with Justice Records, a professorship at the University of Nevada, and a significant role as a recruiter for UNT’s jazz piano area, leading his students to achievements in various competitions and events globally. Stefan’s dynamic presence extends beyond teaching to an illustrious performance career, including collaborations with the Eddie Gomez Trio and Quartet, appearances at renowned international venues and festivals, and a rich discography of 78 recordings, showcasing his versatility and prowess in the jazz world.
Concerts: All.
Noemie LE BORGNE – Violonist
Noémie Le Borgne, a versatile violinist, navigates classical, jazz, and traditional repertoires with unwavering passion. Trained under esteemed musicians from top French orchestras, she earned her DEM at CRR de Cergy-Pontoise and further refined her skills at the Haute École de Musique de Lausanne. She is regularly invited to play in symphonic and chamber orchestras such as Opera National de Paris, Les Siècles, or Paris Mozart Orchestra. Alongside her classical music journey, she has embarked on inspired musical ventures, founding ensembles like Duo Méliès, Dyslexic Swing, and Two Fiddlers, where she showcases her talents in improvisation, jazz, klezmer, and Gaelic folk music.
Concerts : Chinese Jazz – Latin – Swing – Jazz Fusion – Jazz in Movie – Early Jazz – AfroCuban – Funk & Acid Jazz
Xin NIE 聂鑫 – Drummer
Xin NIE, a distinguished drummer and educator, is the visionary founder of the Golden Jazz Orchestra and the driving force behind Zhuhai’s “Hengqin Jazz Week.” Renowned for his rhythmic prowess, Xin has graced international stages, from the Beijing National Theatre Taihu Jazz Festival to the Greeley Jazz Festival in the USA, showcasing his exceptional talent.
Concerts : All.
Michel DELAKIAN – Trumpeter
Michel Delakian, an accomplished musician, embarked on his musical journey by studying first
guitar and later trumpet at the “Conservatoire de Musique de Saint-Étienne.” His impressive career includes being a permanent member of Claude Bolling’s Big Band since 1981, with extensive tours across the USA, Korea, Europe, Colombia, Mexico, Thailand, and more. He joined “L’ Orchestre National de Jazz” in 1986, then “The Paul Mauriat Grand Orchestra” for many tours in Japan, China, and Korea … Delakian’s versatility extends from jazz collaborations with stars like Stéphane Grappelli, Gil Evans, and Quincy Jones to engagements in the world of variety with artists like Charles Aznavour and Bjork. His rich discography reflects his diverse musical ventures, including notable works with the Claude Bolling Big Band, the Organic Jungle Group, or under his name.
Concerts : All.
Ye HUANG 黄野 – Tenor Saxophonist & Clarinetist
Ye Huang, a highly accomplished musician from Shenzhen, China, is a virtuoso in clarinet, saxophone, and piano and an accomplished composer spanning multiple genres. Notable for his groundbreaking performances and achievements, from being the youngest clarinet artist for Backun Clarinet to becoming the first young Chinese musician to perform at Jazz at Lincoln Center in New York, Ye’s musical journey is a testament to his versatility and commitment to pushing the boundaries of jazz and fusion music.
Concerts: All
Aurelien LEHMANN 欧阳 – Tap Dancer
Aurélien Lehmann, a virtuoso tap dancer and multidisciplinary artist, redefines the art of tap dancing by seamlessly blending classical elegance with jazz improvisation. Renowned for performances at prestigious venues worldwide and collaborations with international artists, he has received acclaim for his innovative style, earning recognition from the “Changing Times Tap Dance” Foundation in 2024. Aurélien Lehmann’s clip “Tap Virtuoso” has achieved international acclaim, winning eight awards, including “Best Music Video” at esteemed film competitions like Venezia Shorts (Italy) and Paris Film Awards.
Concerts: All
Lukas GABRIC – Tenor Saxophonist & Flute
Austrian tenor saxophonist, composer, and musicologist Dr. Lukas Gabric, renowned for his breathtaking tenor virtuosity, has left an indelible mark on global jazz. As a Grammy-nominated artist and prolific scholar, he brings a wealth of experience, having received numerous awards for his performances, compositions, and dedication to music education, including the Cultural Distinction Award and Bruno Gironcoli Award from his hometown, Villach, and recognition for teaching excellence at Carnegie Hall.
Concerts: All
Jian CAI 蔡剑 – Guitarist
Renowned Chinese guitarist and jazz educator Jian Cai is a distinguished figure in the music realm with a penchant for blending diverse genres, from rock and metal to blues, funk, jazz, and even elements of classical and Chinese folk music. As an endorsed artist for OLSSON speakers, VOLA guitars, JOYO effectors, and Magneto guitars, his multifaceted approach and musical philosophy are evident in his original compositions and performances.
Concerts:
Sylvain GAGNON – Double Bass Player
Sylvain Gagnon, one of the busiest bassists in Asia since his relocation to Hong Kong in 2000, boasts a prolific career with a remarkable ability to play double bass and electric bass across various styles. Having toured globally, including a world tour with Jackie Cheung, where he performed for over 2,800,000 audiences, Sylvain’s versatility, impeccable reading skills, and arranging prowess make him a highly sought-after bassist in the region, as reflected in the success of his latest CD, “Blue Moon,” released in 2014.
Concerts :
Kan CAO 曹侃 – Trombonist
Kan CAO stands as one of China’s foremost jazz trombonists and composers, recognized for his influential contributions to the genre. Beyond leading his own band, Kan CAO collaborates with various music projects and has shared the stage with jazz luminaries like Nils Landgren, Chris Potter, and Gordon Goodwin, earning acclaim at renowned venues and festivals worldwide, including Blue Note, JZ Club, and international jazz festivals in Germany, New Orleans, and Kansas.
Concerts :
Romain BARBOT – Live Djing
Romain Barbot, after a decade of touring European venues with I Pilot Dæmon, founded Saåad in 2009, a musical laboratory exploring the concept of reminiscence. His work, simultaneously luminous and nocturnal, gentle and abrasive, weaves a hypnotic tapestry that captivates with apparent simplicity, delving into introspection through a rich discography and diverse collaborations, including ventures with renowned artists like Mondkopf and Siavash Amini.
Concerts :
ChakSeng LAM 林泽诚 – Saxophonist
ChakSeng Lam, a remarkable saxophonist and flutist from Macau, is celebrated for his creative prowess and profound harmonic understanding, as acknowledged by American saxophonist John Ruocco. A graduate of the Royal Conservatory of The Hague with a Master’s degree in Jazz Saxophone Performance, ChakSeng is endorsed by Forestone, a prestigious Japanese saxophone brand.
Concerts :
Jose – Keyboard Rap
José, a remarkably versatile keyboardist and rapper, began his musical journey at the age of 4, mastering the piano. In 2020, he showcased his talent by adapting Portuguese pop folk songs into captivating piano pieces, and since then, he has been a dynamic presence in Macau and China, captivating audiences with his jazz trios, instrumental performances, bands, solo piano acts, and pop music ventures.
Concerts :
Kenny DU 杜恰 – Guitarist
Kenny DU, a professional Funk, Pop, and Jazz guitarist, songwriter, and singer, has graced various pop music concerts and International Jazz Festivals across Asia with his versatile musical talents.
Concerts :
Apollo – Percusionist
Apollo, an experienced percussionist, cultivated his passion for percussion during his vibrant youth in the 1990s in the USA, collaborating with groups from Brazil, Cuba, and the Caribbean. With over 30 years of dedication, he has shared stages with Santana and Chelovek and showcased his diverse talents, including singing, piano and violin playing, and experimental sound designing, contributing to various global artistic endeavors.
Concerts :
Tsang Tak HONG 曾德康 – Bassist
Tsang Tak Hong, a highly esteemed Hong Kong bassist, seamlessly transitioned from rock to jazz in his early twenties, solidifying his reputation as a musician’s musician with a charismatic stage presence. Renowned for his international performances at major jazz festivals, including the JZ Jazz Festival, Hong brings his exceptional talents and Sandberg Guitars endorsement to the stage at JAZZ IN MACAO.
Concerts :
Chen SUN 孙晨 – Guitarist
Sun Chen, a versatile musician, has played drums and guitar since a young age, leading bands as the guitarist and drummer. Currently, she is the Golden Jazz Big Band guitarist, bringing her wealth of experience to various jazz festivals and concerts.
Concerts :
Tongtong 邓珮彤 – Keyboards
Tongtong, a prodigious talent, began her musical journey learning piano and guzheng at a young age. By 13, she was immersed in jazz piano and composition at Golden Jazz, earning a full scholarship from The Golden Notes Genius Program and studying under Grammy-nominated jazz educator Stefan Karlsson. Since 2006, Tongtong has garnered awards in major competitions, delivering outstanding performances on various stages nationwide.
Concerts :
MLCH (Shi Fu Miz, FuFu) – DJ
MLCH, the founder of FuFu Creative & FuFu Records in Hong Kong, is a lifelong music enthusiast. Beyond his role as the creator of Digger’s Delight Youtube/Mixcloud channel, sharing global music across continents, MLCH co-founded the Shi Fu Miz Festival in Hong Kong in 2016 and Pitch, hosting daytime events in unique locations since 2021. As a DJ, he has graced underground clubs in Shanghai, Hong Kong, Singapore, Tokyo, Bangkok, Seoul, Hanoi, Bali, and Paris, offering eclectic sets spanning genres from zouk to acid, disco-funk to trance, and Afrobeat to deep house. With recordings for platforms like Boiler Room, Sonar, and Worldwide FM, MLCH’s groovy and diverse musical style makes him a sought-after artist, touring across Asia in 2024 as a resident DJ for the Shi Fu Miz Festival.
3 Parties :
Jazz in Macao Schedule
Jazz in Macao Venues
Open Scene Performers
