2025 NYC Winter Jazzfest: The Best Concerts (So Far)

Stefon Harris, hailed as “one of the most important young artists in jazz” by the Los Angeles Times, is renowned for his virtuosity, innovative compositions, and captivating stage presence. His band, Blackout, features a dynamic lineup of musicians who share his passion for exploring the rich sonic possibilities of jazz.

Blackout’s music seamlessly blends intricate melodies, complex harmonies, and infectious grooves, creating a sound that is both intellectually stimulating and emotionally resonant.

Their performances are known for their high energy and improvisational brilliance, showcasing the band’s exceptional musicality and their deep connection to the jazz tradition.

Hailed by The New York Times for her ability to “stretch boundaries and limitations for harpists,” Brandee Younger seamlessly blends jazz, classical, and contemporary influences into a sound that is both innovative and deeply rooted in tradition, drawing inspiration from a lineage of groundbreaking harpists, including Dorothy Ashby and Alice Coltrane, while forging her own path as a leading voice in the modern jazz scene.

Younger’s latest album, Brand New Life, is a vibrant tribute to Ashby’s legacy, featuring reimagined versions of her compositions alongside Younger’s own original works. The album also showcases Younger’s impressive collaborations with artists like Meshell Ndegeocello, Makaya McCraven, and 9th Wonder, highlighting her versatility and her commitment to pushing creative boundaries.

Beyond her captivating performances and recordings, Younger is also a dedicated educator and advocate for greater representation of Black women in music. Her work is a testament to the power of music to connect generations and inspire new possibilities.

Hailing from Chile and now making waves in New York, Melissa Aldana‘s musical journey has been nothing short of remarkable. She honed her craft at Berklee College of Music, inspired by the legendary saxophonist Sonny Rollins, and her talent quickly propelled her to the forefront of the jazz scene.

In 2013, she made history as the first female instrumentalist to win the prestigious Thelonious Monk International Jazz Saxophone Competition, solidifying her status as a leading voice in modern jazz.

Aldana’s sound is a captivating blend of technical brilliance and emotional depth. Her improvisations are both daring and lyrical, drawing on the rich history of jazz while pushing its boundaries with her own unique voice. She has been praised for her ability to “balance technical achievement against a rich emotional palette” (NPR Music), creating music that is both intellectually stimulating and deeply moving.

Beyond her impressive solo career, Aldana is also a sought-after collaborator, known for her work with artists like Lage Lund and the all-female supergroup ARTEMIS. Her performances are a testament to her dedication to her craft and her passion for pushing the boundaries of jazz expression.

This unique trio combines generations of jazz experience, with Andrew Cyrille and Reggie Workman‘s decades-long legacy interwoven with David Virelles‘ fresh perspective and innovative approach.

Both Cyrille and Workman have collaborated with a who’s who of jazz icons, shaping the landscape of improvisational music since the 1950s. Virelles, known for his captivating blend of Cuban musical traditions and modern jazz, adds a dynamic layer to the group’s sound.

Trio Imagination promises an exceptional musical dialogue, drawing on the deep history of jazz while pushing its boundaries into new and exciting territory. This collaboration is a testament to the enduring power of jazz as a living art form, where generations converge to create something truly extraordinary.

Christian McBride‘s career has been nothing short of extraordinary. He has performed and recorded with a who’s who of jazz legends, including Chick Corea, Herbie Hancock, and Pat Metheny, and has led his own celebrated ensembles, such as Inside Straight, The Christian McBride Big Band, and New Jawn. His music seamlessly blends straight-ahead jazz with elements of funk, soul, Latin, and hip-hop, reflecting his diverse influences and his commitment to exploring new sonic landscapes.

Beyond his virtuosity as a bassist, McBride is also a prolific composer and arranger. His works range from intimate small-group settings to large-scale orchestral pieces, and he has received numerous accolades for his contributions to the world of jazz composition. He is also a passionate advocate for music education, serving as the Artistic Director of the Newport Jazz Festival and mentoring a new generation of rising stars.

McBride’s impact on the jazz world is undeniable. He has been praised for his “fluidity and capacity to encompass all dimensions of his musical predilections with authenticity and ingenuity” (NPR Music). His performances are a testament to his deep love for the music and his unwavering commitment to pushing the boundaries of jazz expression.

Formed in 2009, the Orrin Evans Big Band combines the power of a big band with the spontaneity of a small group, creating a unique and exhilarating musical experience.

Evans, a “Rising Star” pianist according to DownBeat Critics Poll, fosters a collaborative environment within the band, drawing on the talents of both established and rising stars in the jazz world. Their music is a testament to the power of collective creativity, with each member contributing to the band’s dynamic and adventurous sound.

The Captain Black Big Band has released five critically acclaimed albums, including two Grammy-nominated recordings, Presence and The Intangible Between. Their music has been praised for its raw energy, emotional depth, and fearless exploration of musical boundaries. The band’s latest album, Walk a Mile in My Shoe, is a deeply personal project inspired by Evans’ own life experiences, reflecting his resilience and commitment to self-expression.

Beyond their recorded work, the Captain Black Big Band has also been recognized for their ambitious projects, including commissions from Jazz at Lincoln Center and the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Their performances are known for their captivating energy and improvisational spirit, showcasing the band’s ability to connect with audiences on a profound level.

Linda May Han Oh‘s impressive resume boasts collaborations with some of the biggest names in jazz, including Pat Metheny, Kenny Barron, and Joe Lovano.

Oh’s musical journey began in Malaysia, where she was born, and continued in Perth, Australia, where she was raised. She has since established herself as a prominent figure in the New York City jazz scene, captivating audiences with her virtuosity, innovative compositions, and captivating stage presence.  

Oh’s music seamlessly blends intricate melodies, complex harmonies, and driving rhythms, reflecting her diverse musical influences and her deep understanding of the jazz tradition.

She has released five critically acclaimed albums as a leader, each showcasing her exceptional talent as both a performer and composer. Her latest album, The Glass Hours, features her dynamic quintet and further solidifies her position as a leading voice in modern jazz.  

Beyond her performance and recording career, Oh is also a dedicated educator and advocate for social change. She is currently an Associate Professor at the Berklee College of Music and a member of the Institute for Jazz and Gender Justice. Her commitment to mentorship and her passion for using music as a force for good make her an inspiration to aspiring musicians and music lovers alike.

While the legendary trumpeter Roy Hargrove sadly passed away in 2018, his musical legacy lives on through the passionate performances of his Crisol band.

This dynamic ensemble of Cuban, American, and Guadeloupean musicians continues to explore the unique sound they forged with Hargrove, a sound that seamlessly blends Afro-Cuban rhythms, soulful melodies, and fiery improvisations.

Crisol’s upcoming performance at Winter Jazzfest is a celebration of Hargrove’s innovative spirit and enduring influence on the world of jazz.

Their latest album, Crisol: Grand-Terre, a previously unreleased recording from 1998, showcases the band’s incredible chemistry and Hargrove’s masterful writing and playing.

Don’t miss this opportunity to experience the magic of Crisol and pay tribute to one of the most important voices in modern jazz.

Ben Williams, a Grammy-nominated bassist and composer hailing from Washington, D.C., is a vibrant force in modern jazz. Known for his versatility and soulful sound, Williams masterfully blends his jazz roots with elements of R&B, hip-hop, and soul, reflecting the diverse musical landscape of his hometown.

Williams first gained widespread recognition in 2009 when he won the prestigious Thelonious Monk International Jazz Competition. Since then, he has become a sought-after collaborator, performing and recording with a diverse range of artists, including Pat Metheny, George Benson, Stefon Harris, and Robert Glasper.

As a bandleader, Williams’ music is characterized by its infectious grooves, intricate melodies, and a deep sense of musicality that resonates with audiences worldwide.

J.Hoard‘s performances are a testament to his versatility and his limitless imagination as a songwriter. His original compositions and arrangements effortlessly traverse genres, showcasing his ability to connect with audiences on a deeply emotional level.

He has collaborated with a diverse range of artists, from hip-hop icons like Chance the Rapper and Jean Grae to jazz and experimental musicians like Meshell Ndegeocello and Sonnymoon.

Hoard’s captivating stage presence and his powerful vocals have garnered him critical acclaim. He has been praised for his “unpretentious” love of music and his ability to create an atmosphere of “pure joy” (303 Magazine).

His performances are a celebration of music’s power to unite and uplift, always leaving audiences wanting more.

Based in Copenhagen, Jakob Bro is renowned for his captivating soundscapes and his ability to weave intricate melodies into a tapestry of sonic exploration.

He has collaborated with a diverse array of jazz luminaries, including Joe Lovano, Brian Blade, and Charles Lloyd, and his recordings for ECM Records have garnered widespread critical acclaim.  

Bro’s music is characterized by its spaciousness, its delicate balance of improvisation and composition, and its evocative exploration of mood and atmosphere.

He has been praised for his “unerring taste and a gift for conjuring a mood of gentle mystery” (The Guardian), creating music that is both deeply personal and universally resonant.  

Formed in Los Angeles in 2001, Kneebody‘s sound is a testament to their collaborative spirit and diverse musical influences. Keyboardist Adam Benjamin, trumpeter Shane Endsley, saxophonist Ben Wendel, and drummer/bassist Nate Wood have developed a unique musical language, allowing them to seamlessly navigate complex compositions and engage in spontaneous improvisations.

Their music draws on a wide range of styles, including free-bop, jazz-rock, hip-hop, and indie rock, creating a sonic tapestry that is both exhilarating and intellectually stimulating.

Kneebody has released a series of acclaimed albums, including their self-titled debut on Greenleaf Music, Low Electrical Worker on Colortone, and The Line on Concord Records and have also collaborated with renowned artists such as Theo Bleckmann and Daedelus, expanding their sonic palette and pushing the boundaries of their musical explorations.

Their performances are known for their explosive energy, their intricate interplay, and their ability to captivate audiences with their unique blend of musical styles.

Vijay Iyer‘s music is informed by his deep engagement with various musical traditions, including the rhythmic intricacies of South Asian and West African music, the legacy of iconic composer-pianists like Duke Ellington and Geri Allen, and the groundbreaking spirit of the African American creative music movement. He has been praised for his ability to synthesize these diverse elements into a cohesive and deeply personal artistic vision.

His acclaimed trio, featuring the exceptional talents of drummer Tyshawn Sorey and bassist Linda May Han Oh, has garnered widespread critical acclaim for its “telepathic interplay” and its ability to “navigate complex rhythmic and harmonic terrain with grace and precision” (The Guardian). Their performances are a testament to the power of collective improvisation and the boundless possibilities of contemporary jazz.

Iyer’s recent projects include Compassion, a captivating exploration of melody, rhythm, and texture, and Uneasy, a powerful meditation on the complexities of our times.

He has also collaborated with a diverse range of artists, including Arooj Aftab, Shahzad Ismaily, and Wadada Leo Smith, further expanding his creative horizons and solidifying his position as a leading voice in modern music.

Based in Brooklyn, Sarah Elizabeth Charles has garnered critical acclaim for her soulful voice, her captivating stage presence, and her ability to weave intricate melodies and poignant lyrics into a tapestry of sound that resonates with audiences worldwide. She has released four albums with her band SCOPE, each exploring a range of musical styles and lyrical themes, from introspective ballads to socially conscious anthems.

Charles’s impressive career includes performances at prestigious venues such as The White House, Carnegie Hall, and the Kennedy Center. She has collaborated with renowned artists like Chief Xian aTunde Adjuah, George Cables, and Geri Allen, and her music has been praised for its “soulfully articulate” vocals and its ability to create “an unmatched sound” (Jay Z’s Life+Times).

Beyond her performance and recording work, Charles is also a dedicated educator, working with organizations like Carnegie Hall and the New School to empower young musicians and promote social change through music.

She is a recipient of the Yale School of Music’s Distinguished Teaching Artist Award and has developed an early childhood music education program in Haiti.

Charles’s commitment to both her artistry and her community make her a truly inspiring figure in the world of music.

The Hero Trio, featuring Rudresh Mahanthappa on alto saxophone, François Moutin on bass, and Rudy Royston on drums, is a powerhouse of musical innovation and expression.

Mahanthappa, hailed as “one of the finest saxophonists going” by Pitchfork, is renowned for his astonishing facility on the horn and his ability to seamlessly blend the improvisational spirit of jazz with the rhythmic and melodic intricacies of his Indian heritage.

The Hero Trio’s repertoire draws from a diverse range of influences, reflecting Mahanthappa’s deep appreciation for the history of jazz and his commitment to exploring new sonic territories, while their interplay is nothing short of telepathic, with Moutin and Royston providing a dynamic and responsive foundation for Mahanthappa’s soaring saxophone lines.

Mahanthappa has garnered numerous accolades throughout his career, including being named Alto Saxophonist of the Year nine times by Downbeat Magazine‘s International Critics’ Polls and has collaborated with a who’s who of jazz luminaries, including Jack DeJohnette, Danilo Pérez, and Arturo O’Farrill.

This performance at Winter Jazzfest is a rare opportunity to witness the Hero Trio’s captivating musical dialogue, a testament to the power of improvisation, the beauty of reinterpretation, and the enduring legacy of some of music’s greatest heroes.

Keyon Harrold‘s innovative approach to music transcends traditional boundaries, seamlessly blending jazz, hip-hop, soul, and funk into a sound that is both captivating and deeply personal. He has been hailed as “the future of the trumpet” by Downbeat Magazine and praised for his ability to “tear down the walls of genre” (Billboard).

Harrold’s impressive career spans a wide range of musical collaborations and creative endeavors. He has toured and recorded with Jay-Z, composed for Cirque du Soleil, and written the theme song for The Queen Latifah Show. His collaborations include work with renowned artists such as Keith Richards, Black Pumas, Mac Miller, and Samm Henshaw.

As a bandleader, Harrold has released critically acclaimed albums that showcase his exceptional talent as a trumpeter, vocalist, and composer. His music is characterized by its infectious energy, soulful melodies, and a deep sense of groove that resonates with audiences worldwide.

He is also a passionate advocate for social justice and equality, using his platform to inspire positive change.

As JazzTimes aptly states, “The spirit of serious jazz tenor saxophone endures in JD Allen.” His playing is deeply rooted in the tradition of jazz saxophone, yet he possesses a unique voice that is both captivating and innovative.

Allen has been praised for his thoughtful improvisations, his captivating stage presence, and his ability to weave intricate melodies into a tapestry of sonic exploration.

A prolific composer, Allen releases a new album every year, consistently pushing the boundaries of his musical vision. He has garnered numerous accolades throughout his career, including being named Tenor Saxophonist of the Year by Downbeat and JazzTimes magazines. His music has been featured on NPR’s Fresh Air and has earned him a place among the most respected figures in modern jazz.

Allen’s impressive resume includes collaborations with legends like Lester Bowie and Betty Carter, as well as contemporary icons like Cindy Blackman and Meshell Ndegeocello. He has graced the stages of renowned venues such as the Village Vanguard and has performed at prestigious festivals worldwide.

His dedication to his craft and his unwavering commitment to pushing the boundaries of jazz expression make him a true force in the world of music.

Born in Paris and raised in Massachusetts, Mayaka McCraven was immersed in a rich musical environment from a young age. His father, a jazz drummer, exposed him to a diverse community of musicians, while his mother, a Hungarian folk singer, instilled in him an appreciation for global traditions. This upbringing shaped McCraven’s unique approach to music, which he describes as “jazz-rooted 21st century folk music.” He views jazz as a living tradition, constantly evolving and connecting with new audiences.

McCraven’s music is a testament to his belief in the power of collaboration and community. He often records live improvisations with his band, later sampling and reworking the material in the studio. This process allows him to capture the energy and spontaneity of live performance while also incorporating his signature production style. His critically acclaimed albums, such as In The Moment and Universal Beings, showcase his ability to seamlessly blend genres and create music that is both innovative and deeply rooted in tradition.

McCraven’s last album, In These Times, is the culmination of a seven-year project. This ambitious work reflects his personal experiences and cultural heritage while pushing the boundaries of jazz into new and exciting territory. He continues to challenge conventional notions of what jazz is and can be, solidifying his position as a leading voice in the contemporary music scene.