Now in its 43rd year, the Tri-C JazzFest has been a pivotal part of Cleveland's live music scene for over four decades. And, this year's fest, happening June 23025, is shaping up to be one for the books.
The 2022 lineup features an assortment of established jazz greats alongside others who are just starting to make waves. In total, 14 acts will grace the indoor stages of Playhouse Square with their talents, and even more artists gracing the free outdoor Strassman Insurance Stage, underneath the GE Chandelier that hangs above East 14th Street and Euclid Avenue.
Tickets are on sale now for indoor performances.
Check out some of the highlights ...
Indoor Lineup
ThIndoor Lineupe 43rd annual festival features eight ticketed concerts in Playhouse Square’s historic theatres, with a special opening night concert — dedicated to retiring Tri-C President Alex Johnson — featuring Anthony Hamilton at Cleveland Public Auditorium’s Music Hall.
Festival highlights include homecoming concerts by native Clevelanders Joe Lovano and Sean Jones in addition to performances by vocalist Cyrille Aimée and legendary pianist Eddie Palmieri. In addition, jam with Brian Culbertson, Ghost-Note, Raul Midón and a special performance by the Tri-C JazzFest All-Star Big Band under the direction of John Clayton featuring John Pizzarelli and more.
Outdoor Lineup and Festival Fun
You want free Jazz open to all ages? How about shopping, food and beverage vendors, street performers and even more festival entertainment? That's what you'll get at Tri-C JazzFest's Outdoor Festival happening right underneath the GE Chandelier at U.S. Bank Plaza.
The Strassman Insurance Stage features local and regional talent selected by a jury of music industry experts that includes jazz, gospel, funk and rock that will keep the dance floor full all festival long. Meanwhile, the William M. Weiss Foundation Next Gen Stage will showcase Tri-C JazzFest Academy camp students, the Spirit of the Groove ensemble and former students who have passed through the program throughout the years.
Kids will love the U.S. Bank Kids Club tent at Huron and Euclid, which will be chock full of musical arts and crafts, drum lessons, face painting, games a magician and fun for the whole family. The Jazz Kitchen will feature cooking demos and tips from the Tri-C Hospitality Management Center and interviews with featured artists. All this combined with the Ohio Lottery Beer Tent, Art Acts Giant Puppets, Food Trucks and more vendors, performers and games that will entertain and delight between sets.
So, get down to Tri-C JazzFest and, well, get DOWN.