Nine Days of Soul-Stirring Performances, Culinary Delights, and Wine Amidst the Scenic Beauty of Healdsburg, California
The allure of jazz, wine, food, and the picturesque landscapes of Northern California’s wine country converge once again as the Healdsburg Jazz Festival makes its triumphant return for its 26th annual celebration from June 15 to 23, 2024. Under the direction of the esteemed composer and bassist Marcus Shelby, this year’s festival promises an extraordinary lineup of jazz legends and emerging artists across nine days of unforgettable performances.
Nestled in the heart of Sonoma County, Healdsburg Jazz Festival beckons music aficionados to indulge in a one-of-a-kind destination experience. From boutique wineries to elegant venues, the festival offers a unique fusion of world-class jazz and exquisite wine, creating an ambiance that is nothing short of magical.
The festival kicks off with a flourish at the Kendall-Jackson Wine Estate & Gardens, where patrons are treated to a sensory feast of music, wine, and local cuisine. Multi-GRAMMY Award-winning vocalist Samara Joy headlines the Father’s Day celebration, serenading audiences with her soulful melodies amidst the sprawling vineyards. Against this idyllic backdrop, attendees can savor estate-grown wines paired with delectable fare from local food trucks.
Healdsburg Plaza comes alive with the vibrant sounds of New Orleans-style jazz during the Juneteenth celebration, featuring trombonist Steve Turre Sextet and saxophonist Houston Person, among others. Throughout the week, a diverse array of performances unfolds at iconic venues like Bacchus Landing, where audiences can revel in the music of luminaries such as Ambrose Akinmusire, Bill Frisell, and Herlin Riley.
From the soulful rhythms of Chief Adjuah (formerly Christian Scott) to the evocative harmonies of harpist Brandee Younger, the festival showcases the rich tapestry of jazz in all its forms. Saxophonist Joshua Redman, accompanied by vocalist Gabrielle Cavassa, delivers a captivating finale at Bacchus Landing, bringing the nine-day extravaganza to a crescendo.
Beyond the music, the Healdsburg Jazz Festival offers a holistic cultural experience, with workshops, film screenings, and discussions exploring the legacy of jazz luminaries like Duke Ellington. The festival’s commitment to music education is evident in its support for young talent, as demonstrated by performances from the Healdsburg Jazz Future All Stars and the Healdsburg Freedom Jazz Choir.
With its stellar lineup of performers, breathtaking venues, and immersive experiences, the 26th Annual Healdsburg Jazz Festival promises to be a highlight of the summer calendar. Whether you’re a seasoned jazz enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this nine-day celebration offers something for everyone—a chance to savor the finest music, wine, and hospitality that Sonoma County has to offer. As the festival continues to evolve and innovate, it remains a testament to the enduring legacy of jazz and its ability to unite and inspire audiences around the world.
2024 Performing Artists: Samara Joy, Joshua Redman Quartet Featuring Gabrielle Cavassa, Ambrose Akinmusire Featuring Bill Frisell & Herlin Riley, Jazzmeia Horn with the Marcus Shelby Orchestra, Chief Adjuah (Formerly Christian Scott), Brandee Younger Trio, Juneteenth in the Healdsburg Plaza with Steve Turre Sextet, Houston Person & Eric Person Quintet, The Cookers, Omar Sosa “Quarteto Americanos” & Screening of the Documentary Film “Omar Sosa’s 88 Well-Tuned Drums,” Bruce Forman, Lisa Fischer & Taylor Eigsti with Special Guests Adji Cissoko & Shuaib Elhassan of LINES Ballet, Natalie Cressman and Ian Faquini, Howard Wiley Quartet, Jazz Mafia New Directions In Brass, Amendola Vs. Blades Featuring Raffi Garabedian, Darrell Grant and MJ NEW, Tiffany Austin & The Healdsburg Freedom Jazz Choir, MJ’s Brass Boppers, Sylvia Cuenca Trio, Bill Ortiz Quintet, Kristen Strom Quartet, Poet Enid Pickett, and more!