Feb 3, 2026 12:10 AM
In Memoriam: Ken Peplowski, 1959–2026
Ken Peplowski, a clarinetist and tenor saxophonist who straddled the worlds of traditional and modern jazz, died Feb. 2…
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
Peplowski first came to prominence in legacy swing bands, including the final iteration of the Benny Goodman Orchestra, before beginning a solo career in the late 1980s.
Feb 3, 2026 12:10 AM
Ken Peplowski, a clarinetist and tenor saxophonist who straddled the worlds of traditional and modern jazz, died Feb. 2…
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