Welsh Jazz Sextet Debuts Abroad at Sparks & Visions 2027
Tomos Williams' Blodeugerdd, an all-Welsh jazz sextet, will make its first-ever performance outside Wales at the Sparks & Visions Festival in Regensburg, January 15-17, 2027. The festival continues its strong tradition of championing UK jazz talent on the European stage.
A Festival Built on Bold Jazz Programming
Now in its fifth edition, the Sparks & Visions Festival at Staatstheater Regensburg has earned a reputation for adventurous, high-quality jazz curation under Artistic Director Anastasia Wolkenstein. Bavarian Radio has recorded every single concert since the festival launched in 2023, a testament to the caliber of its programming. The festival's distinctive visual identity, featuring suspended glass mobiles designed by artist Karl Iaro, makes it one of Europe's most striking jazz events.
Tomos Williams' Blodeugerdd: Welsh Jazz Goes International
The 2027 festival marks a landmark moment for Welsh jazz, as Tomos Williams' Blodeugerdd takes the Regensburg stage for its international debut. The sextet features trumpet player and composer Tomos Williams alongside pianist Huw Warren, bassist Paula Gardiner, saxophonist Rachel Musson, drummer Mark O'Connor, and vocalist Eädyth Crawford. The group's name, meaning 'anthology' in Welsh, reflects the rich, layered sound they bring to European jazz.
Full 2027 Lineup: From Nordic Jazz to Baroque Piano
The 2027 programme spans an impressive range of styles, from Welsh folk traditions to the contemporary multi-genre sound of SALOMEA, named Artist of the Year at the 2026 German Jazz Awards. Nordic jazz fans will also be drawn to Saturday's Superposition set, featuring Finnish artists Linda Fredriksson, Olavi Louhivuori, and Mikael Saastamoinen. The festival closes Sunday with Vincent Peirani and François Salque presenting a Bach Project on accordion and cello.
Key Takeaways
Sparks & Visions 2027 delivers another diverse and ambitious jazz lineup, with Tomos Williams' Blodeugerdd offering a rare chance to experience cutting-edge Welsh jazz on the international stage. If you follow European jazz, this Regensburg festival belongs on your radar.
Author: Sebastian Scotney
Source: UK Jazz News
Published: October 1, 2026
