The 22nd DC Jazz Festival Kicks Off… A 5-Day "Musical Feast" Across The Wharf
From World-Renowned Masters to Hidden Gems… How to Meet 7 Can't-Miss "Local Stars"
As the cool breeze of early autumn begins to blow this September, Washington, D.C. sheds its characteristic buttoned-up suit and starts snapping its fingers to the rhythm. The "D.C. Jazz Festival," now in its 22nd year, has kicked off in grand fashion as the capital region's premier music festival. Centered around The Wharf, the entire city will transform into a massive jazz club for five days.
While stages featuring heavyweight icons like Dee Dee Bridgewater and Joshua Redman are bound to be magnificent, there is something else that truly sets the hearts of real jazz aficionados racing: the local artists who serve as the lifeblood and hidden treasures of the area's jazz scene. Here are seven local musicians you shouldn't miss—perfect for casually dropping, "Did you catch their set?" on your Monday morning commute.
Melodies That Tug at the Heartstrings: When Sorrow Becomes Art
Bassist Corcoran Holt, who will kick off the festival, is an artist who layers his own life atop the deep, resonant thrum of bass strings. His new album, "Freedom of Art," released earlier this year, brilliantly captures the poignant intersection between the joy of having a son and the grief of losing his father. Listening to his mother's voice and his child's babbling woven between the tracks evokes a striking chill and emotional resonance, much like sneaking a peek into someone's private diary. (Sept. 5, 5:15 p.m., Anthem Row)
Vocalist Heidi Martin masterfully blends folk, soul, and poignant social messages into jazz. Her voice carries an undeniable persuasion rather than mere beauty. Singing of civil rights and vitality, her performance is more than enough to warm a crisp autumn night. (Sept. 6, 8:00 p.m., Mr. Henry's)
From Latin Heat to 30 Years of Fingerwork Mastery
Venezuelan percussion maestro Fran Vielma puts on a show that makes it impossible to keep your shoulders still. Once the Afro-Caribbean rhythmic barrage from his "Venezuelan Jazz Collective" begins, even the most reserved Washingtonians will find themselves swaying to the groove. It is an essential stop if you want to experience the true flavor of Latin jazz. (Sept. 7, 5:45 p.m., Pearl Street Warehouse)
A champion of the D.C. jazz scene, pianist Janelle Gill is an artist who truly embodies the word "genius." She unravels complex harmonies effortlessly and fluidly even within large ensembles, and watching her fingers fly across the keys is nothing short of awe-inspiring. Come see for yourself on stage why she was selected as this year's festival Artist-in-Residence. (Sept. 7, 6:15 p.m., Arena Stage)
Variations on the Classics, and Unpredictable Journeys
With a 30-year career, trumpet master Kenny Rittenhouse smoothly dishes out classic swing and bop styles. Preserving the elegance of the classics while never allowing a dull moment, his high-energy performance is a perfect choice even for jazz newcomers. (Sept. 7, 9:15 p.m., Pearl Street Warehouse)
On the other hand, Luke Stewart is a trailblazer of avant-garde improvisational jazz who relentlessly shatters audience expectations. His performance is like a rugby ball bouncing in entirely unpredictable directions. That thrilling tension of never knowing where the next note will land reveals the very essence of jazz.
(6th at 8:30 PM, Union Stage)DC’s Local Spirit, Completing the Finale
You cannot talk about DC jazz without mentioning the Chuck Brown Band, who will highlight the festival's final night. Carrying on the legacy of Chuck Brown, the "Godfather of Go-Go," they masterfully layer smooth jazz over funky go-go rhythms. Standing with your arms crossed as a mere spectator simply won't cut it at this show. Immerse yourself in the electrifying exchange of shouting and dancing between the musicians and the crowd, and savor the true groove of DC. (8th at 9:00 PM, The Wharf District Pier)