BERLIN SOLO IMPRO

Casting a spotlight on the soloist form of improvised performance, Berlin Solo Impro highlights the act of personal and spontaneous artistic self-expression in a unique and tangible way. Arguably, it is one of the very few festivals (if not the only one) of its kind worldwide that has been running for a consecutive number of years.

Drawing on a wide range of improvisatory genres ranging from jazz, echtzeitmusik and contemporary music to electronic and experimental styles, Berlin Solo Impro showcases a wide variety of approaches from traditional playing styles to avantgarde techniques, including self-created instruments or musically applied objects. The fesitval aims to feature long-term solo improvisers next to newcomers in the field, while representing a cross section of different ages and maintaining a gender balance. Over the years, it has been inspiring artists to record solo albums or even engage with the idea of solo performance in the first place.

Each night consists of five consecutive solo performances, leading into a grand finale where all artists get to play together, juxtaposing solo and collective performances, thus highlighting all its differences and commonalities.

Curated and organized by Volker Meitz on an annual basis since 2018.

NOTE ON THE 2026 EDITION
Unlike all the previous years, the 2026 edition (volume #9) will run without financial support, as we haven't been granted funding by any institution or foundation. Although this is unfortunate, we will still carry on, if in a somewhat reduced format: This year, there will only be two nights instead of the usual three; the line-up consists of local hero*ines exclusively, as we couldn't afford to fly in any national or international talent; we might start off each night with a short artist talk (as usual), or we might skip it; as opposed to using our go-to location, we're running the event in two other smaller (but nonetheless great) venues; lastly, we're doing just a basic audio/video recording, as opposed to the usual high quality full length production.
Hoping to be back at our usual standard for our 10th anniversary next year!! ;-)