Sep 3, 2026 10:44 AM
In Memoriam: Cassandra Wilson, 1955–2026
Cassandra Wilson, a singer, songwriter and producer who was one of the most acclaimed and successful jazz vocalists of…
Joss Stone will appear as a headliner at the 2017 Xerox Rochester International Jazz Festival, which runs from June 23—July 1.
(Photo: Courtesy of the artist)Live jazz returns to the Xerox Rochester International Jazz Festival this summer alongside a healthy dose of rock, soul and r&b.
Producers John Nugent and Marc Iacona have announced that English rock band King Crimson, vocalist Joss Stone, saxophonist Maceo Parker and musical collective Postmodern Jukebox will appear as the final four headliners for the nine-day fest, which celebrates its 16th edition June 23–July 1.
Newly added acts include St. Paul and the Broken Bones, Colin James, the Jerry Douglas Band and Caravan Palace. The Hooligans—also known as the backing band for pop artist Bruno Mars—will perform on the Midtown Free Outdoor Stage.
“Every June we bring world-renowned artists to Rochester from around the globe,” said John Nugent, artistic director and co-producer. “This year the iconic UK art rock group, King Crimson, led by the incomparable Robert Fripp, makes a rare appearance on American shores. British soul goddess, Joss Stone, brings a powerhouse band along with her amazing vocals. YouTube sensations, Postmodern Jukebox, will deliver their unique sounds in Kodak Hall and we are honored to present the ultimate celebration of the life of the legendary Ray Charles [with] To Ray, With Love, starring Maceo Parker with The Ray Charles Orchestra featuring The Raelettes.”
Overall, the festival includes more than 325 shows at 19 venues across the downtown area.
The 3-day Club Pass and 9-day Club Pass are also on sale at rochesterjazz.com for $154 and $204 respectively, plus service charges. Tickets for headliners Sheryl Crow and Mavis Staples are also still available.
For a complete lineup of artists, visit the Xerox Rochester International Jazz Festival website. DB
Wilson’s ability to connect to audiences helped her to win two Grammy awards and multiple other accolades. She was named an NEA Jazz Master in 2022.
Sep 3, 2026 10:44 AM
Cassandra Wilson, a singer, songwriter and producer who was one of the most acclaimed and successful jazz vocalists of…
“The love from the jazz and music community restored my faith in humanity,” Walia wrote in an online post upon his release from detention at an ICE facility.
Aug 18, 2026 2:15 PM
Indian jazz guitarist and composer Pritesh Walia has been released after being unexpectedly detained by ICE and taken…
Bertoncini was a specialist and advocate for the nylon-string acoustic guitar, turning down high-profile opportunities that were unsuited to the sound and techniques that he used with that instrument.
Sep 1, 2026 11:06 AM
Gene Bertoncini, an esteemed jazz guitarist, composer, arranger and educator, died Aug. 29 at the Lillian Booth Actors…
A solo concert by saxophonist Joshua Redman will close the first night of the Hyde Park Jazz Festival on Sept. 26.
Sep 22, 2026 12:26 PM
The Hyde Park Jazz Festival will take place for the 20th time on the final weekend of September 2026. Beginning half…
“It was just that suddenly … I could hear it,” Ravi Coltrane said of an epiphany he experienced during his late teens regarding his father’s music. “And it was almost like a calling, like something saying, ‘Hey, man, come on. It’s time to get serious.’ And the first time you really tune in and dial in and focus like that, it can be very life-changing.”
Sep 22, 2026 1:39 PM
Editor’s Note: Tomorrow, Sept. 23, is the 100th anniversary of John Coltrane’s birth. In honor of the tenor and…
