First AI Jazz Festival Coming to Switzerland

A Swiss city known for its rich musical heritage and connection to jazz is hosting the AI.LOVE.JAZZ competition, a two-day, high-stakes exploration of how cutting-edge technology intersects with the foundational traditions of jazz. Taking place from July 9–10, 2026, at the historic Riviera Café within the Casino Barrière Montreux, the event challenges attendees to weigh in on whether artificial intelligence will ultimately serve to dismantle or elevate the future of musical composition through a sophisticated program of masterclasses, live performances, and a prestigious gala.

The festival opens on July 9 at 17:00 with an elegant evening of apéro talks and a curated caviar tasting, setting the stage for the 20:00 showcase. During this centerpiece, a live band will bring algorithmic compositions to life by performing the top 15 finalists' tracks, while the audience will also gain technical insights during a 20-minute masterclass from MoneOnDaBeat, representing the new guard of American AI production.

The celebration reaches its pinnacle on July 10 with the Grand Finale Gala. Following an evening of high-level discourse on the potential for AI to help jazz flourish, five-time Grammy winner Oscar Gómez will take the stage to announce the contest winners. The event will then conclude with an explosive, high-energy performance by the world-renowned PATAX, whose signature fusion of Latin, flamenco, funk, and Afro-Cuban jazz promises an unforgettable finale to this landmark event.