The Melbourne International Jazz Festival returns this October with its largest program yet, headlined by global jazz stars Harry Connick Jr, Gregory Porter and Samara Joy.

Running 17–26 October, the 2025 festival will deliver more than 150 performances across 40 venues, featuring over 500 artists from 18 countries. Organisers say the 10-day program cements Melbourne’s position as the centre of Australia’s jazz scene, with 18 Australian premieres, five major commissions and more than a third of the events free to the public.

According to Festival Artistic Director Michael Tortoni, the 2025 program represents MIJF’s most ambitious step yet. “Jazz has always been about pushing boundaries, and this year we’re bringing the world’s most innovative artists together with Australia’s finest to create something truly special,” he said.

The American singer, pianist and ‘expert mentor’ on the ABC’s hit Piano series, Harry Connick Jr will headline Jazz at the Bowl on 25 October, performing at the Sidney Myer Music Bowl with his band. Known for his mix of jazz standards, New Orleans swing and...