The 2024 NYC Winter Jazz Fest is set to honor Brooklyn’s Black Nation in a celebration that intertwines the rich history of jazz with the profound legacy of African American communities in Brooklyn. This year’s festival, taking place betweenmore than just a series of concerts, is a tribute to the enduring spirit and influence of Black musicians and cultural leaders who have shaped the landscape of American music.
In the heart of New York City, the Winter Jazz Fest has become synonymous with discovery and excellence in jazz. The 2024 edition promises to be a groundbreaking event, showcasing a diverse lineup of artists who are not only jazz aficionados but also storytellers of Black history and heritage. The festival’s focus on Brooklyn’s Black Nation is not just a nod to the past; it’s a vibrant celebration of the present and a hopeful glance towards the future of jazz.
The festival will kick off with a special screening of “The Sun Rises in the East,” a documentary film that delves into the story of The East, a significant cultural organization founded in 1969 in Bedford-Stuyvesant, Brooklyn. This film, created by the talented husband-and-wife team Tayo Giwa and Cynthia Gordy Giwa, is the first feature-length documentary to explore the profound impact of The East on the community and beyond. It’s a fitting start to a festival that prides itself on deep, meaningful connections to jazz’s roots and branches.
Following the screening, the festival will host a series of Jazz Talks at the Moxy Hotel in Williamsburg. These talks, scheduled for January 13, will feature discussions on the impact of The East and its role in shaping the cultural and musical landscape of Brooklyn. These dialogues promise to be enlightening, offering insights into the challenges and triumphs of a community that has contributed immensely to the fabric of American culture.
The highlight of the festival, “A Night At the East,” will take place at Crown Hill Theater on January 14. This event is not just a concert but a re-imagining of legendary jazz performances that once graced The East. The lineup is nothing short of spectacular, featuring jazz luminaries like Gary Bartz, Billy Hart, David Murray, and Nicole Mitchell. These artists, alongside other notable names such as Moor Mother, Charles Burnham, and Kweku Sumbry, will bring to life the spirit of The East, celebrating its legacy through their music.
The East, during its heyday, was more than just a venue; it was a hub for Black empowerment and cultural expression. It hosted performances from jazz greats like Max Roach, Sun Ra, and Betty Carter, becoming a symbol of Black self-determination and artistic freedom. The Winter Jazz Fest’s homage to this iconic institution is a testament to the enduring power of music as a tool for community building and social change.
In addition to these marquee events, the 2024 NYC Winter Jazz Fest will feature a plethora of performances across various venues in the city. Each performance is carefully curated to reflect the festival’s theme, offering audiences a rich tapestry of sounds and stories that underscore the significance of Brooklyn’s Black Nation in the world of jazz.
The festival is more than just a series of musical events; it’s a cultural phenomenon that brings together artists, historians, and music lovers. It’s a platform for dialogue, a space for reflection, and a celebration of the unifying power of music. As the festival unfolds, each note played and each story told will be a tribute to the indomitable spirit of Brooklyn’s Black Nation and its contribution to the world of jazz.
For more information and the program, visit https://www.winterjazzfest.com/
