The 32nd Annual Charlie Parker Jazz Festival is upon us, and it’s set to light up the streets of New York City with a vibrant celebration of jazz! As a cornerstone of Capital One City Parks Foundation’s SummerStage series, this year’s festival is a must-attend event for jazz enthusiasts and curious listeners alike. With performances spread across Harlem’s Marcus Garvey Park and the East Village’s Tompkins Square Park, plus exciting partner events throughout Manhattan, the festival promises an immersive experience into the world of jazz.
A Tribute to “The Bird”
This year’s festival continues its tradition of honoring Charlie Parker, affectionately known as “The Bird,” by showcasing an array of stellar performances that capture his revolutionary spirit and musical genius. Parker’s influence is felt across every set, reflecting his groundbreaking contributions to the jazz genre.
Festival Lineup
Friday, August 23 – Marcus Garvey Park
The festival kicks off at 7 PM in Marcus Garvey Park with an electrifying performance by the GRAMMY-winning Christian McBride Big Band. This 17-piece ensemble will bring a modern, post-bop flavor to the evening. Joining them will be Wallace Roney Jr. and his Quartet. Roney Jr., following in the footsteps of his legendary father Wallace Roney, will bring a fresh perspective to the jazz tradition. This show is presented in partnership with Jazzmobile and promises to be a highlight of the festival.
Saturday, August 24 – Marcus Garvey Park
The music continues on Saturday with a remarkable lineup starting at 3 PM. Vocalist, composer, and pianist Carmen Lundy will captivate the audience with her rich, emotive sound. She will be followed by pianist Helen Sung, who will team up with renowned saxophonist Chris Potter. Chicago-based Isaiah Collier’s Chosen Few and vocal talent Tyreek McDole will also take the stage. Adding to the excitement, WBGO’s DJ KulturedChild, AKA Angelika Beener, will spin some tracks to complement the live performances.
Sunday, August 25 – Tompkins Square Park
The festival wraps up on Sunday at 3 PM in Tompkins Square Park with a powerhouse lineup. Jazz Master Louis Hayes will perform alongside SuperBlue, featuring Kurt Elling and Charlie Hunter with the Huntertones horns. Vocalist Ekep Nkwelle and composer Alexis Lombre will also be part of the festivities. DJ KulturedChild will return to keep the groove going with another set.
Partner Events
The festival is complemented by a series of partner events that extend the celebration across the city:
- Wednesday, August 21: Start the week with “Jazz in the Garden” at El Sol Brillante Garden with Cucho Martinez and Friends at 5:30 PM, and a special Harlem Speaks session with Louis Hayes and Christian McBride at The National Jazz Museum in Harlem at 7 PM.
- Thursday, August 22: Celebrate Max Roach’s centennial at Jackie Robinson Bandshell with Calvin Hill Quartet and a film screening at 6:30 PM, followed by a Communal Ancestral Listening Session at The New School at 7:30 PM.
- Friday, August 23: Join us at Harlem Rose Garden for Jazz in the Garden with Bertha Hope Quintet at 5:30 PM, and later enjoy a jam session at Minton’s Playhouse at 10:30 PM.
- Saturday, August 24: Check out the “We’re Outside 2024 Art Exhibit” at Marcus Garvey Park’s Northwest Lawn, presented by Mount Morris Park Community Improvement Association.
- Sunday, August 25: End the week with a TRILL MEGA JAM at Nublu at 8 PM, an after-party to celebrate the festival’s success.
Don’t Miss Out
Be sure to visit the festival website for full details and to watch our trailer showcasing the highlights of this weekend’s performances. The Charlie Parker Jazz Festival is an extraordinary opportunity to experience the magic of jazz in the heart of New York City. We can’t wait to see you in the parks!
Festival Schedule at a Glance
- Friday, August 23
- 7 PM: Christian McBride Big Band / Wallace Roney Jr. Quartet – Marcus Garvey Park
- Saturday, August 24
- 3 PM: Carmen Lundy / Helen Sung ft. Chris Potter / Isaiah Collier and the Chosen Few / Tyreek McDole – Marcus Garvey Park
- 3 PM: Mount Morris Park Community Improvement Association Art Exhibit – Marcus Garvey Park Northwest Lawn
- Sunday, August 25
- 3 PM: Louis Hayes / SuperBlue: Kurt Elling & Charlie Hunter ft. Huntertones / Ekep Nkwelle / Alexis Lombre – Tompkins Square Park
- 8 PM: TRILL MEGA JAM After-Party – Nublu
Mark your calendars and prepare for a weekend of unforgettable jazz performances!