South Orange, NJ|Featured Event
International Jazz Day Featuring Greg Burrus Ensemble, Lance Bryant & Shout! w/Stefon Harris
Experience classic jazz with a modern twist in a warm and pleasant atmosphere featuring an incredible lineup of musicians and student ensembles.
2:30 PM — Jazz Day Prelude (4/26/2026)
Arrive early for a special prelude celebrating International Jazz Day and National Poetry Month inside the NJPAC Rotunda. This intimate, art‑filled gathering features the Greg Burrus Ensemble with the Charlie Apicella Group, weaving soulful jazz textures that set the tone for the day.
Adding to the creative energy, poets from Dodge Poetry bring vivid spoken‑word performances, while TD Jazz for Teens vocalists lift the space with expressive, heartfelt interpretations.
It’s a warm, community‑centered kickoff — a fusion of music, poetry, and youth artistry that welcomes guests into the spirit of the celebration
4:00 PM — Emerging Artists Showcase (Victory Theater)
A dynamic spotlight on the next generation of jazz excellence, featuring standout young performers from Riverdale Country School, Valley Jazz Orchestra, JAZZ HOUSE KiDS, and NJPAC’s TD Jazz for Teens.
Guiding the afternoon with her signature warmth and deep love for the music is WBGO’s Sheila Anderson, whose presence brings both credibility and community spirit to this youth‑driven celebration.
6:00 PM — Jazz Day Concludes (4/26/2026) Lance Bryant and Shout - abd vibraphonist Stefon Harris.
This rare meeting of gospel‑soaked big‑band energy and boundary ‑ pushing jazz innovation creates a sonic experience that lifts the spirit and shakes the soul. Bryant’s soaring arrangements, SHOUT!’s electrifying vocal and horn power, and Harris’s luminous improvisation collide in a performance that feels both sacred and boldly contemporary. Expect joy, groove, virtuosity, and a communal surge of energy that defines why live music matters.
Parking and Arrival:
Parking is available in Military Park Garage, directly across the street from NJPAC. For information on directions, driving, parking and rideshare, click here.