The largest free jazz festival in the greater NYC region returns for its 15th year! The Montclair Jazz Festival Downtown Jamboree hosted by Jazz House Kids, brings a vibrant celebration to the streets of Montclair. The festival attracts thousands of music fans each year. It offers an unforgettable experience with multiple stages of live music, and over 170 food and artisan vendors. This year’s Downtown Jamboree takes place on September 14 from 12 p.m. to 10 p.m.. The event will transform Montclair’s Bloomfield Avenue commercial corridor into a jazz-filled paradise!
Performance Lineup
This year’s festival features an exceptional lineup. Performances include Grammy-winning saxophonist Kenny Garrett and powerhouse vocalist Lisa Fischer with her band Grand Baton. Plus, dynamic drummer Jerome Jennings & ill Philosophy and the innovative Edmar Castañeda Quartet will also perform. Jazz enthusiasts can enjoy performances by veteran trombonist and seashellist Steve Turre Sextet, rising star vocalist Brianna Thomas, and the Montclair State University Jazz Ensemble, directed by Oscar Perez. Additionally, nine-time Grammy-winning bassist and festival music director Christian McBride will take the stage with his acclaimed quintet, Inside Straight.
Adding to the excitement, the Jazz House Collective will honor Sarah Vaughan with a tribute to her music with special guest appearances by Jazz House Kids founder Melissa Walker.
“This year’s Montclair Jazz Festival will be another joyous celebration of America’s greatest art form, featuring some of the world’s finest musicians and fans, many of whom have supported Jazz House Kids and this festival since its inception 15 years ago,” says Christian McBride. “The ones that aren’t are simply those we haven’t met yet. Everyone who comes to our festival leaves embraced by our shared community, and their love for jazz is deepened.”
Attendees can look forward to a day of outstanding performances and fun for all ages. From talented solo acts to lively band performances, the festival offers something for every jazz lover.
New this year is the 15th Anniversary Celebration Block Party. This will kick off after eight hours of live music. Furthermore, DJ Brother Mister and special guest DJ Prince Hakim will take over the Downtown Jamboree stage for a lively funk and soul dance party.
Additionally, the festival will introduce the Jazz House Legacy Band. The Legacy Band will perform aboard the Montclair Jazz Festival sponsor Jazz Cruise’s Celebrity Summit, sailing in January 2025.
Don’t miss this incredible opportunity to immerse yourself in a day full of jazz in the heart of Montclair. Mark your calendars for September 14 and join the thousands gathering on Bloomfield Avenue for an unforgettable day of vibrant celebration and soulful music!
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About the Author/s
Alondra Cabrera is the Editorial Assistant at New Jersey Digest. She recently graduated from Montclair State University with a degree in Communication and Media Studies. During her time at school, she discovered her passion for journalism and content creation. In her free time, she loves to create and edit videos for her corgis, Rafi and Toffe, and indulge in culinary adventures with her friends. Alondra also enjoys traveling, cooking, and working out. She is excited to embark on her professional journey in media and looks forward to contributing her skill and creativity to her role here at New Jersey Digest.
