For 29 years young jazz musicians are given the opportunity to show their talents and well-known jazz artists will give the best of themselves. Dozens of bands and musicians got their first stripes at Jazz Hoeilaart, which they proudly could put on their résumé later.

With two birthdays programmed, this 30th edition was to become an even larger party for Albert Michiels, the founder and organizer of Jazz Hoeilaart. He would celebrate his 85th anniversary in July and the 30th edition of Jazz Hoeilaart, his  festival and contest, in September. But alas, on the 16th of May 2008, Jazz Hoeilaart lost its founder and inspiration.

In appreciation of his phenomenal efforts, Muziekmozaïek and De Rand, together with their collaborators and volunteers will make this edition one never to forget. With concerts of Toots Thielemans, Philip Catherine, Tutu Puoane Quartet and Lady Linn & her Magnificent Seven, an exhibition about 30 years of Jazz Hoeilaart and lots of extra activities we will celebrate this 30th edition in the spirit of Albert Michiels.

OB6 and our audio team were responsible, from Wednesday 24 September until the final on Saturday 27 September, for the audio-multitrack recording of this international jazz festival and contest as ordered by Muziekmozaïek.

The recordings will be used for the CD production of this edition.