WHAT TO EXPECT FROM THE 8TH “INTIME JAZZ FEST”

The eighth edition of the “Intime Jazz Fest” opens on 24 November at 8 PM with a performance by Srđan Kolarević, one of Banja Luka’s most acclaimed jazz musicians on the international scene, together with his “Srđan Kolarević Quartet.”

Led by guitarist and composer Srđan Kolarević, the quartet brings together four exceptional artists: Dušan Simović (double bass), a refined guardian of rhythm with appearances at major European festivals; Martin Vos (piano), known for his warm, layered sound that blends soulful emotion, funk groove and jazz freedom; and Dušan Novakov (drums), a powerful yet sensitive musician with a rich international career and teaching experience in Vienna. Their musical chemistry promises an evening of true jazz authenticity.

Kolarević will also present his new album, New Songs With Old Friends Who Are Still Very Young, inspired by memories of his student days in Graz and friendships rooted in a shared passion for jazz. The album blends emotion, creativity and a deeply personal artistic voice, revealing a musical connection that time and distance haven’t dimmed. Born in Banja Luka, Kolarević studied at the Jazz Academy in Graz under Mark Murphy, Sheila Jordan and Andy Bey, later spending two decades performing in Washington, D.C., before continuing his career in Mannheim and Pula. His style is often described as emotional, free-spirited and virtuosic.

The second evening of the festival, 25 November at 7 PM, is dedicated to the most sincere audience — children. In the concert hall of Banski dvor, a didactic performance titled “Jazz for Kids” will bring joy, playfulness and a touch of musical magic to the youngest jazz fans. The program aims to introduce children to the imaginative world of music through beloved Disney melodies, reimagined in jazz arrangements. The experience will be guided by talented musicians: Ivan Ilić (trombone), Branko Marković (double bass), Ivan Radivojević (trumpet), Ljubomir Turajlija (saxophone), Milovan Paunović (piano), Martin Đorđević (drums) and Ljiljana Sadžil (vocals and narration).

The concept, created by Belgrade jazz singer Ljiljana Sadžil, transforms the concert into an interactive, playful and educational journey that delights both children and their parents.

On Wednesday, 26 November at 8 PM, the celebrated Marković–Ilić Sextet will take the stage at Banski dvor. The ensemble brings together musicians of different generations who stand at the forefront of Serbia’s contemporary jazz scene: Branko Marković (bass), Ivan Ilić (trombone), Ivan Radivojević (trumpet), Ljubomir Turajlija (saxophone), Milovan Paunović (piano) and Martin Đorđević (drums).

Formed three years ago, the sextet carries a touch of nostalgic humor in its name, paying homage to the iconic Marković–Gut Sextet of the 1980s. Their repertoire combines original compositions by Ilić and Marković, gems of the hard bop tradition and innovative arrangements of Balkan folk themes, crafted with Ilić’s signature approach. Their synergy on stage radiates energy, passion and curiosity.

“Jazz is a language of communication, and this ensemble proves that musicians of different generations can think and feel music in the same rhythm,” said trombonist and composer Ivan Ilić.

The festival’s finale on 27 November at 8 PM will be nothing short of spectacular. The stage of Banski dvor will host one of the most thrilling quartets of the contemporary jazz scene — the Oleg Kireyev & Kit Javors Quartet.

This unique collaboration unites two global musical forces: Oleg Kireyev, one of Russia’s leading saxophonists known for his hypnotic, sensual tone and performances at major festivals such as Montreux, London Jazz Festival and New York Jazz Festival; and American pianist, arranger and educator Kit Javors, celebrated for his impeccable technique and vibrant stage presence. Joining them are local virtuosos Branko Marković (double bass) and Nikola Radojičić (drums), together forming a bridge between East and West, blending original compositions with jazz standards into a deeply expressive and captivating sound.

“You don’t have to be an expert to enjoy jazz. Like any art form, it’s full of colors, nuances and character. I love writing music for a wide audience — melody always comes first,” Kireyev told Glas Srpske.

With more than 16 albums and performances at major world festivals, Kireyev has collaborated with trumpet legend Tom Harrell, bassist Ben Williams and drummer E.J. Strickland.

Critics describe his tone as “raspy and enchanting like Ben Webster’s, yet deep like Coleman Hawkins’.” Local audiences have heard him at Nišville Jazz Festival in 2016 and 2024, as well as at festivals in Trebinje, Veliko Tarnovo and Banja Luka.

Tickets priced up to 10 KM are available at the Banski dvor box office on weekdays from 12 PM to 6 PM.

Following the tradition of many regional jazz festivals, each concert evening will continue at “Haos Tuborg Pub” in Banja Luka from 10 PM, where the well-known local band Combine Quartet will host jam sessions featuring festival musicians.