TMN Youth Reporters to Cover DC Jazz Festival’s 20th Anniversary
As the DC Jazz Festival marks its 20th anniversary, seven talented young reporters from Teens Media Network (TMN) will be on the ground, capturing the essence of this landmark event.
Washington, D.C. – As the DC Jazz Festival marks its 20th anniversary, seven talented young reporters from Teens Media Network (TMN) will be on the ground, capturing the essence of this landmark event. These youth journalists are set to immerse themselves in the festival's vibrant atmosphere, bringing fresh perspectives to the coverage of one of the nation’s most celebrated jazz events.
The nation’s capital, steeped in a rich musical heritage, is poised to host the 20th edition of its premier jazz festival, a week-long event that showcases the convergence of global talent and local legacy. From August 28 to September 1, the DC Jazz Fest will transform the city into a hub of eclectic rhythms and vibrant melodies, featuring over 100 artists across multiple venues. All the program and tickes ara available at the web festival.
This year’s festival underscores Washington, D.C.'s status as a global city, with its foreign embassies playing a pivotal role in the celebration. In a unique collaboration that honors jazz as a universal language, the festival partners with embassies from Australia, Chile, Cuba, Finland, France, and Italy. These partnerships bring an impressive lineup of international artists to the stage, including the virtuosic saxophonist James Morrison from Australia, the all-female ensemble Confluencia from Chile, the dynamic Cimafunk from Cuba, and the boundary-pushing pianist Joonas Haavisto from Finland. The festival also welcomes the Clovis Nicholas Quartet from France, featuring the renowned trumpeter Jeremy Pelt, and Italy’s Paolo Fresu, a master of the trumpet and flugelhorn.
Pictures below: Samara Joy, Jeremy Pelt, Cimafunk and Joonas Haavisto.
Spotlighting Jazz Luminaries and Emerging Voices
Complementing the international acts are American jazz icons and rising stars. Detroit’s own Dianne Reeves, celebrated New York vocalist Samara Joy, and the innovative saxophonist Lakecia Benjamin are among the headliners. The festival also features the multifaceted British artist Jacob Collier, American bass legend Stanley Clarke, and the versatile Latin jazz drummer and composer Bobby Sanabria. These artists will perform at key venues such as The Wharf, the Transit Pier, and Union Stage, offering a citywide celebration that captures the essence of jazz’s global influence.
As the largest and most diverse music festival in Washington, D.C., the DC Jazz Fest attracts over 100,000 attendees each Labor Day Weekend. The festival’s performances span a variety of iconic locations, including The District Wharf, Arena Stage, Union Stage, The Anthem, Takoma Station, Westminster Presbyterian Church, the Kreeger Museum, and numerous clubs, parks, and restaurants. This widespread celebration ensures that the sound of jazz permeates every corner of the city, reinforcing its reputation as a vibrant center for the genre.
Inside the DC Jazz Festival’s Mission
The DC Jazz Festival is more than just an annual event; it’s a year-round commitment to celebrating jazz through performances and programs that feature top local, national, and international artists. Its mission is to showcase both established and emerging talents, foster community connections, and promote music education. As one of the largest jazz festivals in the country, it draws enthusiasts from around the world to experience Washington, D.C.'s rich jazz culture.
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