The Denver Jazz Fest is set to return for its second installment from April 7 to 12, 2024, featuring an impressive lineup of artists. Following a successful debut last year, the festival aims to celebrate both renowned and local jazz musicians. This event comes as a significant cultural response to the conclusion of the Five Points Jazz Festival, which had been a staple of the city’s music scene for over twenty years.
Denver’s rich jazz heritage, particularly in the historic Five Points neighborhood—often referred to as the “Harlem of the West”—is a focal point for the festival. The area has hosted legendary figures such as Ella Fitzgerald and Miles Davis, alongside local icons like Charles Burrell and Purnell Steen. The Denver Jazz Fest seeks to honor this legacy with a diverse array of performances across fifteen venues in Denver and Boulder.
Notable Performers and Programming
Among the highlights, Bob James will make his first Denver appearance in four decades, performing in a special tribute titled “Unlimited Miles: Miles at 100,” directed by John Beasley, a multi-Grammy Award-winning pianist. Other notable acts include Marquis Hill, Kurt Rosenwinkel, Mark Turner, Terreon Gully, and Ben Williams.
The festival will also feature the Rodney Whitaker All-Stars, and Rico Jones will collaborate with celebrated trumpeter Hugh Ragin for a performance dedicated to the works of John Coltrane and Miles Davis. Additional headliners include the Branford Marsalis Quartet, José James, and a rare solo performance by John Beasley.
The lineup also promises a variety of musical experiences, such as a Latin Dance Party led by the Raul Murciano Mambo Orchestra and solo piano performances from Jeff Jenkins. A complete list of artists and performance details can be found on the festival’s official website.
Tickets and Participation
Tickets for the Denver Jazz Fest are currently available for purchase at denverjazz.org. The festival offers an opportunity for music enthusiasts to immerse themselves in a vibrant celebration of jazz, showcasing both established artists and emerging talents throughout its duration.
As Denver continues to foster its musical identity, the Denver Jazz Fest stands as a testament to the city’s dedication to honoring its jazz roots while providing a platform for new generations of musicians.
