- What: “Let’s Funk” concert by the Blue Beans Big Band
- When: Wednesday, February 25, 2026, starting at 8:00 PM
- Where: Kassablanca, Jena
- Organizer: Musik- und Kunstschule Jena
Jena, February 24, 2026. A musical highlight awaits the cultural city of Jena in the middle of the week: The Blue Beans Big Band invites you to a captivating concert evening at the traditional Kassablanca under the fitting motto “Let’s Funk.” The event, organized by the Musik- und Kunstschule Jena, promises an exciting and high-energy mix of classic big band tradition, modern funk grooves, and Latin American elements.
What visitors can expect at the “Let’s Funk” concert
On Wednesday evening, February 25, 2026, Kassablanca will open its doors at 8:00 PM for lovers of handmade instrumental music. The absolute focus of the evening is the renowned Blue Beans Big Band Jena. The ensemble presents a diverse program that goes far beyond standardized swing and jazz literature. The audience can look forward to a performance that skillfully combines classic brass sections with danceable and driving rhythms.
The musical direction of this special evening is shared by two prominent artists esteemed in the regional music scene: Yuniet Lombida Prieto brings his extensive expertise in Latin American influences to the band’s rich and dynamic sound. This stylistic diversity is complemented by pianist and arranger Evgenij Zelikman. With his specially arranged pieces, he gives the ensemble an open, contemporary jazz approach that both challenges and delights musicians and listeners alike.
From a student band to an established ensemble
The Blue Beans Big Band looks back on a long and remarkable history in the city on the Saale. Founded in 1993, the formation originally began as an ambitious student band. Over more than three decades, however, the group has continuously evolved. Today, the band presents itself as a versatile and cross-generational musical body. The special and integrative concept of the Musik- und Kunstschule Jena allows committed adults and students to stand on stage together. This unique blend of musical experience, youthful energy, and a great passion for jazz constitutes the unmistakable appeal of the ensemble.
The venue, Kassablanca at the Jenaer Westbahnhof, provides the ideal and authentic setting for this. The club has been a permanent institution in Jena’s subcultural and cultural landscape since the early 1990s. Known for its intimate atmosphere and excellent acoustics, the stage at “Kassa” offers perfect proximity to the audience. This allows the multi-layered and powerful big band sound to be experienced directly and authentically.
Conclusion and outlook: A fixed component of the local culture
Events like the upcoming “Let’s Funk” concert underscore the enormous importance of the Musik- und Kunstschule for the diverse cultural life in Jena. They offer local talents a highly professional platform and significantly enrich the city’s range of events beyond the commercial mainstream. For jazz enthusiasts, lovers of live music, and fans of danceable funk rhythms, Wednesday evening at Kassablanca should be an absolute must-attend date.
Anyone wishing to experience the ensemble live should arrive at the venue in good time on Wednesday evening. As experience shows that concerts by local and well-established big bands in Jena enjoy great popularity, punctual attendance is advisable.
The local editorial team wishes all visitors a groovy and unforgettable concert evening at Kassablanca!
Source:
“Let’s Funk” at Kassablanca: Blue Beans Big Band live
Transparency note: This article was created automatically, editorially reviewed, and expanded with AI support.