JazzCamp for Girls Returns to Kolkata for Its Second Edition

1 – 4 December 2025

About JazzCamp for Girls

JazzCamp for Girls is a renowned initiative originated in Denmark by JazzDanmark, the national agency for jazz music, to empower young female musicians through improvisation, ensemble playing, and leadership. It fosters a supportive, dynamic environment for girls to experiment, gain confidence, and uncover innovative artistic paths. The India edition is proudly presented by JazzDanmark, the Danish Cultural Institute, Kolkata Jazzfest (Jazz+), and Meta Arts, in partnership with The New Town School as the host institution.

About Jazz+

Jazz+ is the educational and outreach arm of Kolkata Jazzfest, dedicated to delivering exceptional learning experiences for emerging musicians in the city. By integrating the second edition of JazzCamp for Girls into its December programming, Jazz+ reinforces its mission to create inclusive, world-class jazz education in Kolkata. This year’s program is guided by four expert music pedagogues—two from Denmark and two from India. 

Jazzfest Kolkata 2025 invites school groups to experience world-class jazz in an exclusive, affordable and educational way through our Student Visitors Program

Exclusive School Experience (4 PM – 8 PM)

4 PM onwards: Guided session during soundcheck with Festival Director
→ Brief history of Jazzfest Kolkata
→ How an international jazz festival works behind the scenes
→ Live preview of artists sound-checking on stage
6 PM – 8 PM: Watch the first two performances of the evening
Perfect for students aged 12–18

Special School Benefits

Subsidized group tickets (10+ students)
Free entry for accompanying teacher/chaperone
Seated area reserved for school groups

JazzCamp for Girls Debuts in India with Kolkata Edition

December 2024, Kolkata: Jazz Danmark’s pioneering initiative, JazzCamp for Girls, launched its first Indian
edition in collaboration with Jazzfest Kolkata, Meta Arts, Danish Cultural Institute and the Calcutta School of
Music. This inspiring program, designed to address gender imbalance in contemporary music, provided
young girls aged 13-17 with the tools and encouragement to explore jazz through a hands-on workshop.

About JazzCamp for Girls

Since its inception in 2014 by JazzDanmark and the Copenhagen Jazz Festival, JazzCamp for Girls has expanded
to eight countries, empowering young women to find their voices in contemporary music. With its launch in
India, the program continues its mission to break barriers and foster inclusivity in music.

A Unique Indo-Danish Collaboration

The Kolkata camp was led by accomplished Danish instructors Anne Efternøler and Cecilie Strange,
alongside celebrated Indian musicians Premjit Dutta and Debjit Mahalanobis. Over the course of the camp, 15
young participants immersed themselves in the fundamentals of jazz and improvisation, gaining valuable
skills and insights.

As a special highlight of this initiative, the four mentors came together as The Calcutta Copenhagen
Connection to perform as a band for the first time. This unique collaboration debuted at Kolkata Jazz
Festival’s outdoor stage on December 14th, 2024.

Educational and Cultural Impact

JazzCamp for Girls in Kolkata is a milestone in the program’s global journey. The edition is part of Jazzfest
Kolkata’s Jazz+ educational initiative, in collaboration with the Danish Cultural Institute . By nurturing the next
generation of female musicians, the camp aims to inspire creativity and confidence while contributing to a
more inclusive musical landscape.

Event Highlights:

• JazzCamp for Girls Workshop
Location: The Calcutta School of Music
Dates: 9,10,11,12 December 2024

• The Calcutta Copenhagen Connection Performance
Featuring: Premjit Dutta, Anne Efternøler, Debjit Mahalanobis, Cecilie Strange
Venue: Kolkata Jazzfest
Date: December 14th, 2024