For one night only, the Esto-Cubist Jazz Festival 2026 sees auto-didact pianist/composer Jex Saarelaht, perennial of the Melbourne musical landscape, joined by four outstanding musicians – Scott Tinkler (trumpet), Julien Wilson (tenor and soprano saxophones), Ben Hanlon (double bass), and Felix Bloxsom (drums); continuing to present his own distinctive compositions, along with less-travelled pieces by jazz  composers including Geri Allen and Andrew Hill.

Led by composer and multi-instrumentalist Adrian Sherriff, Kalachakra moves between traditional repertoire and transformed compositions, celebrating the creative possibilities that emerge when musical traditions encounter one another—where rhythms intersect, identities evolve, and the wheel of time continues to turn.

Composed by Omid Shayan and blending Iranian melodies and rhythms with Classical orchestration and Jazz improvisation, Safar is a suite for symphony orchestra and jazz quartet. Featuring Andrea Keller (piano), Omid Shayan (tenor saxophone), Tamara Murphy (double bass), Ronny Ferella (drum), and the Victorian Youth Symphony Orchestra.

Opening set presents the debut performance of Amber, a new ambient quartet formed by saxophonist/flautist Mia Barham (Lumina 2025 award recipient). Featuring Mia Barham (flute, alto saxophone and Synths); Ben Ingvarson (percussion); Dan Waddingham (guitar); and, Oscar Lenain (bass and Synths).

Second set: Saxophonist and composer Elly Blackham launches her debut album, Don’t Push The River. Featuring Elly Blackham (tenor saxophone); Mia Barham (alto saxophone & flute); Pat Jaffe (piano); Jack Smythe (double bass); and Pat Skarajew (drums).