On 12 July, BBC Radio 1’s Benji B explores the connection between fashion and music in a workshop and later performs a DJ set. Meanwhile Lakwena, the designer of this year’s festival poster, will deliver a talk titled ‘All You See Is Glory’ and later that evening, audiences can enjoy a 4K restoration of “Pink Floyd at Pompeii”. On 13 July, Jarvis Cocker will deliver the workshop ‘Outsider Art’ at the Memphis, the day before Pulp’s headline performance on the Lake Stage.

Free Programme Announced: Over 600 Free Events Across 13 Stages

Alongside its ticketed events, the Montreux Jazz Festival proudly unveils this year’s extensive free programme, offering over 600 open-access events from 4 to 19 July. From concerts and DJ sets to workshops, dance classes, film screenings, and jam sessions, the programme represents one of the most significant free cultural offerings in Switzerland.

A major new addition this year is the Spotlight Stage. Featuring two concerts each evening, the new stage will present rising voices in genres including pop, electronic, soul, and more. Performers include Theodora, Miki, Marcin, and Nemzzz, with select sets filmed for digital platforms. Montreux’s UK media partner, The Independent, will present the evening of Tuesday 8 July featuring one of the UK’s most hyped artists, the charming and mysterious Luvcat, alongside Wamen.

The Lake House offers a compelling overview of today’s jazz, soul, and R&B from across the globe, showcasing talents such as American trumpeter Keyon Harrold, Tiny Desk contest-winner The Philharmonik, Leeds-based trio Gotts Street Park, Berlin’s Moses Yoofee Trio, Catalan vocalist and trombonist Rita Payès, and the Turkish quartet Telli Davul. With dozens more artists to choose from, other highlights from the free stages include sets from some of the world’s top DJs at La Coupole including Derrick Carter, Jyoty, Shimza, Cassius, and Barbara Butch.

As always, Montreux’s free programme is designed to be inclusive, vibrant, and educational - upholding the Festival’s mission to make world-class cultural experiences accessible to all.

Mathieu Jaton, CEO of the Montreux Jazz Festival, said: “Montreux has always been a meeting place for cultures, ideas, and musical expressions. This British weekend embodies that spirit, offering an exciting showcase of UK creativity while deepening our collaboration with the Southbank Centre. At the same time, our extensive free programme ensures that everyone can access the joy and discovery that defines Montreux.“