CARINTHIA JAZZ

Welcome to the CIJA Jazz Competition

The Carinthian International Jazz Award (CIJA) is dedicated to enriching and diversifying the cultural landscape of Carinthia while providing a platform for outstanding young jazz musicians from around the world. Although the CIJA is traditionally a saxophone competition, in recognition of the centennial year of John Coltrane and Miles Davis in 2026, this year’s edition will be open to all instruments. During the final round, each selected finalist will be required to perform at least one composition by either Coltrane or Davis.

Each year, the CIJA takes place at the restored cloister ruins in Arnoldstein, Austria. Since its founding in 2018, the competition has welcomed finalists from a wide range of countries, including Israel, France, Italy, the United States, Canada, Colombia, Thailand, Slovenia, and Hungary.

As founder of the CIJA and an active jazz saxophonist, I remain committed to supporting the next generation of artists. The competition is designed not only as a performance platform, but also as a professional environment that encourages exchange, visibility, and long-term artistic development.

I look forward to welcoming this year’s participants and continuing to strengthen an international network of jazz musicians through this initiative.

Dr. Lukas Gabric

On this page you can

1. Learn more about the CIJA
2. Register and Apply
3. Ask Questions