Jul 17, 2025 12:44 PM
DownBeat’s 73rd Annual Critics Poll: One for the Record Books
You see before you what we believe is the largest and most comprehensive Critics Poll in the history of jazz. DownBeat…
Montreux Jazz Festival Miami headliner Jon Batiste will co-host a Descarga Afro Cuban jam session on March 2.
(Photo: David Needleman/Verve)The second annual Montreux Jazz Festival Miami will take place Feb. 28–March 2, with headline performers including Jon Batiste & Friends, Janelle Monáe and an Afro-Cuban “La Descarga” (improvised jam session) hosted by Batiste and breakout Cuban star Cimafunk with Alfredo Rodriguez, Cimafunk & La Tribu, Pedrito Martinez, Robe L Ninho, Wampi, Yissy Garcia and more to be announced. The Bogota-based ensemble Monsieur Periné will also perform.
The one-of-a-kind weekend of world-class performances will return to The Hangar at Regatta Cove, a 1,500-capacity venue in Miami’s Coconut Grove neighborhood, bringing one of the world’s acclaimed jazz festivals to the shores of The Magic City.
“Bringing the soul of Montreux to the heart of Miami is an honor,” said Batiste. “It’s a rare festival where the room is intimate and musical collaboration and improvisation are central to the experience. We had an unforgettable experience last year and can’t wait to be back.”
The festival also includes the return of the Legendary Montreux Jam Session each night of the festival, curated by Batiste and featuring his band Stay Human, as well as a series of master classes available to VIP ticket holders. Wynwood-based audiophile vinyl listening bar Dante’s HiFi will return with a pop-up installation, and a selection of Miami’s best restaurants will also be onsite.
“The first edition of the Montreux Jazz Festival in Miami was an incredible success, with the city embracing our music, spirit and legacy with open arms,” said Mathieu Jaton, CEO of Montreux Jazz Festival. “As we prepare for the second edition, we are thrilled to bring even more unforgettable performances and experiences to Miami’s vibrant music scene. We look forward to deepening our connection with this beautiful city and celebrating the rich, diverse sounds that make the Montreux Jazz Festival so unique.”
Tickets are currently on sale. For further information, CLICK HERE. DB
James Brandon Lewis earned honors for Artist of the Year and Tenor Saxophonist of the Year. Three of his recordings placed in the Albums of the Year category.
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