By Chicago Times Magazine –
June 29, 2024
Chicago’s Millennium Park and the historic Cultural Center are set to swing once to the sounds of the lineup for the 2024 Chicago Jazz Festival. From August 29th to September 1st, Chicago will be filled with the sounds of America’s art form – jazz. This year’s festival promises a vibrant blend of established legends and rising stars, ensuring there’s something for every jazz enthusiast.
The festival kicks off on Thursday, August 29th at the Claudia Cassidy Theater within the Chicago Cultural Center. The day will feature a performance by “The Young Masters,” showcasing the next generation of jazz talent, followed by sets from established acts like the Jeff Chan Ensemble and the acclaimed DJAZ Quartet.
Millennium Park’s Von Freeman Stage on the North Promenade will see rising stars like vocalist Maddie Vogler and the Bethany Pickens Trio take the stage alongside established acts like the Big Shoulders Brass Band and the Lakecia Benjamin Quartet.
Over at the Pritzker Pavilion area, the festival offers a chance to witness the magic of jazz giants. From the soulful stylings of vocalist Catherine Russell to the legendary Billy Harper Quintet, the lineup promises unforgettable performances.
The festival places a special focus on Chicago’s jazz scene. The Southside All Stars, featuring Di’Kobi Berry and Darius Hampton, will bring the energy of the city’s South Side to the stage, while local hero Jason Adasiewicz showcases his virtuosity.
Beyond the headliners, the festival offers a plethora of opportunities to discover new favorites. The festival’s free stages will host a variety of ensembles throughout the weekend, ensuring there’s always a chance to catch a captivating performance.
Feature image: Detroit Publishing Co., Publisher. Chicago Public Library. United States Illinois Chicago, None. [Between 1890 and 1901] Photograph. https://www.loc.gov/item/2016801821/ | Cropped.
