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The Hyde Park Jazz Festival is returning for its 18th year on Sept. 28-29. This special event offers a two-day, free celebration of jazz on the South Side. Featuring 36 performances across various stages, the festival highlights the creative diversity of Chicago jazz. Showcasing both emerging talents and renowned artists from national and international scenes, the festival also features local cuisine, artisan shops and picnic areas for the community to enjoy.
Event Highlights
Exclusive Collaborations
- Justin Dillard’s New Trio: Featuring the celebrated Chicago pianist alongside guitarist Jeff Parker and drummer Jeremy Clemons. This trio will offer a fresh take on jazz fusion with powerful improvisations and grooves.
- Dee Alexander & The Makanda Project: Vocal legend Dee Alexander teams up with the Boston-based big band for an extraordinary performance.
- Geof Bradfield’s Colossal Abundance: A one-of-a-kind ensemble featuring acclaimed musicians Ben Goldberg (clarinet) and Anna Webber (sax, flute).
Tributes and Special Projects
- Willie Jones Quintet: Featuring trumpeter Jeremy Pelt, this performance pays tribute to the legendary drummer Billy Higgins.
- James Baldwin 100th Anniversary Celebration: A special collaboration between the Hyde Park Art Center, artist Robert Earl Paige, and Chicago Poet Laureate avery r. young. Their performance will mark the centennial of Baldwin’s birth with performances inspired by his works.
Featured Performances
- Ambrose Akinmusire: Experience a rare solo performance by the acclaimed trumpeter inside the stunning Rockefeller Chapel.
- Immanuel Wilkins – Blues Blood: An introspective project that blends traditional jazz with contemporary sounds, creating an emotional expression of the genre.
- Nate Smith & Kinfolk: Groove with this Grammy-nominated drummer and his ensemble as they deliver a high-energy set filled with soul and funk influences.
Local Legends
- Ari Brown & Natural Information Society Community Ensemble: This Chicago jazz legend teams up with the boundary-pushing ensemble for a blend of improvisation and tradition.
- Tatsu Aoki’s Miyumi Project: A unique fusion of jazz and Japanese traditional music led by bassist and filmmaker Tatsu Aoki.
- Bobby Broom & Pharez Whitted: Two of Chicago’s finest jazz musicians, guitarist Bobby Broom and trumpeter Pharez Whitted, will showcase their skills in powerful live performances.
This event is completely free, but attendees are encouraged to bring a donation of $10 to support the fest. Visit the Hyde Park Jazz Festival website for the full program and schedule.
