On 18 November 2026, UNU and Blue Note Japan will co-host Speaking Jazz 2026, featuring a talk session and short live performance by renowned jazz artists and cultural leaders exploring peace and cross-cultural understanding. The event will start at 19:00 in the 1F Annex Space at UNU Headquarters in Tokyo (doors open 18:30). The event can also be viewed via livestream on the official event page.
In 2025, the United Nations presented Speaking Jazz to commemorate its participation in the Osaka-Kansai World Expo and International Jazz Day on 30 April. Through the universal language of jazz, the artists fostered dialogue across borders, cultures and generations, demonstrating music’s unique power to bring people together and inspire international solidarity. Building on the success of the inaugural event, Speaking Jazz returns for a second edition at the United Nations University on 18 November 2026.
Featured speakers and performers will include world-renowned jazz pianist and educator Kenny Barron, acclaimed composer and arranger Chris Walden; and Junko Onishi, a pianist leading Japan’s jazz scene. Joining them will be Seiichi Saito, Executive Producer of ARTE TOKYO (Tokyo International Festival of Arts and Culture) and founder of Panoramatics, for a conversation on the theme of “Peace and Cross-cultural Understanding.”
At a time when divisions and conflicts are deepening around the world, lasting peace depends on dialogue, mutual understanding and respect for diverse cultures and values. Drawing on their own experiences and creative practices, the participants will reflect on the role that music and the arts can play in society, the innovation that emerges when different cultures intersect, and their hopes for the next generation who will shape our shared future. The discussion will be moderated by musician and media personality Miu Sakamoto.
This event will be conducted primarily in Japanese. Following the talk session and live performance, guests are invited to attend a complimentary reception. Please be prepared to present identification at check-in.
Note that food and photography are prohibited during events at UNU Headquarters, unless prior permission is granted by UNU.
For the latest information about this event, including access to the event livestream, please visit the official event page.
Registration
Advance registration is required. Please click on the REGISTER button above to access the online application page. The application page will be open during the following period: Friday, 6 November 18:00 – Monday, 9 November 23:59 JST
If applications exceed venue capacity, participants will be selected by lottery. Applicants will be notified of the results by email on Wednesday, 11 November.
