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Michigan Jazz Fest: Youth & Diversity Take Center Stage
18 Jul
Summary
- Festival transforms campus into a jazz celebration with 46 performing groups.
- Jazz Talks series delves into jazz history and its Detroit connections.
- New educator-in-residence position focuses on youth development.
- Free admission and parking available for attendees.
This Sunday, July 19, Livonia's Schoolcraft College will host the 31st annual Michigan Jazz Festival, transforming its campus into a large-scale celebration of jazz music. The free event will run from noon until 9 p.m. and feature 46 performing groups selected from over 150 auditions, performing on eight stages both indoors and outdoors.
The festival offers a wide spectrum of jazz, from boogie-woogie and Latin rhythms to big band swing and classic standards. Special stages cater to vocals, intimate piano performances, and diverse ensembles. A key focus this year is the expansion of the festival's educational mission with the introduction of its first educator-in-residence, Andrew Bishop, who will work with young musicians.
Beyond the performances, the Jazz Talks series in the Collaborative Learning Center will explore jazz history and its significant ties to Detroit and Michigan, featuring conversations with historians and musicians. The Future of Jazz Stage will showcase college and high school ensembles, culminating in a performance by the Michigan Jazz Festival All-Star High School Jazz Band at 2 p.m. Organizers emphasize a growing focus on youth and diversity, aiming to showcase emerging talent from across the state.
