The largest free jazz festival in the world is back, and it’s returning this Labor Day! The Detroit Jazz Festival, from August 29 to September 1, will be kicking off its forty-sixth year, featuring a killer line-up spanning four stages. From downtown to midtown, including Wayne State University’s campus, there will be plenty to jazz out to.
About the Detroit Jazz Foundation
Founded in 1980, the Detroit Jazz Foundation is an independent, non-profit organization, focused on presenting jazz and educational workshops. With its year-round educational programs, the Detroit Jazz Foundation create unique for aspiring musicians and students to develop as artists.
The Detroit Jazz Festival serves as the foundations signature event showcasing some of the best talent in Jazz, local and national artists.
Artist-in-Residence: Jason Moran
Accomplished pianist and composer Jason Moran will serve as the Artist-in-Residence for the 2025 Detroit Jazz Festival.
From Houston, Texas, Moran began playing piano at age six. His talents would eventually lead him to New York City, where he continued to hone his skills at the Manhattan School of Music. Following his senior year, a former high school classmate recommended him to saxophonist Greg Osby. That proved pivotal for Moran, who went on to become a fixture in Osby’s recordings and touring.
Chris Collins, President and Artistic Director of the Detroit Jazz Festival Foundation, stated in an article on the festivals official site, “Jason Moran is a trailblazer in the use of diverse multimedia and theatrical installations to present jazz audiences in a way that has never been done before.”
The 2023 German Jazz Pianist of the Year will be a must watch at this year’s festival, as he’ll be joined by Jeff Mills and special guest Jessica Care Moore at the Carhartt Amphitheater Stage opening night.
Headliners and Highlights
In true Detroit Jazz fashion, they have asked artists to shake things up. Here are some notables taking the stage on Labor Day weekend:
- Dr. Valade’s Brass Band, featuring Shannon Powell
- Chris Potter Trio featuring Matt Brewer, and Kendrick Scott
- John Pizzarelli
- Maria Schneider Orchestra
- Randy Napoleon and Waking Dream
- Nick Collins Sextet
- John Scofield Quartet featuring Vicente Archer, Bill Stewart, and Nicholas Payton
- Marion Hayden and Legacy with special guest Kamau Kenyatta
Whether you’re a life long Jazz lover, or looking for something new to experience. The 46th annual Detroit Jazz festival is sure to be another Jazz-Tastic celebration of the country’s best Jazz artists. So mark your calendars and get ready to jazz out on Labor Day weekend in the motor city.
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