Festival Season

There’s something about summer that reminds me why I fell in love with this life in music.

We just wrapped up four wonderful shows at the Rochester International Jazz Festival, one of the largest jazz festivals in New York. What amazes me isn’t just the number of people who attend, it’s their enthusiasm. Audiences arrive genuinely excited to listen, discover new artists, and share in the experience of live music. It’s a beautiful reminder that jazz is alive and well when communities embrace it.

I had an incredible time performing alongside good friends and musicians I always love working with: Rick Germanson, Damon DueWhite, and Nimrod Speaks. Every performance felt special, but one of the unexpected highlights was teaching a master class. The room was filled with adults who came with curiosity, thoughtful questions, and a genuine desire to understand my creative process. After all these years on stage, it was a pleasure to share some of what I’ve learned along the way.

A heartfelt bravo to John Nugent, who, as both a gentleman and a jazz musician himself, has created something extraordinary. The Rochester International Jazz Festival isn’t just a festival, it’s a community. With stages throughout the city and audiences that embrace both familiar faces and new discoveries, it has become one of the country’s great celebrations of jazz.

On Monday, I’m heading back to New York City after six wonderful shows at South Jazz Kitchen in Philadelphia, a club I’ve been fortunate to play for more than twenty-five years, dating back to its Zanzibar Blue days. It has been especially gratifying to see audiences embrace Harlem After Dark, our celebration of the music, stories, and spirit of Harlem. What began as a house party for artists in my Harlem Brownstone has taken on a life of its own, capturing the attention of presenters and audiences alike. There is nothing more rewarding than watching people leave the show smiling, singing, and feeling like they've spent an evening in Harlem. The Bynum Brothers have always run a first-class operation, and I want to thank Zoe, Kenny, Harry, Michael, and every member of the staff who understand how to make musicians feel welcome and appreciated. Their motto says it all: “Be like jazz and improvise.” It perfectly captures the spirit of both the music and the people who make it happen.

Next stop: Italy.

We’re returning to the Umbria Jazz Festival in Perugia, another place that has become like family over the years. I first met Carlo Pagnotta at APAP many years ago, and that friendship has led to performances at festivals throughout Italy—and beyond—from Ischia and Spoleto to Orvieto and even China. Those experiences have allowed me to soak in the Italian way of life and witness, time and again, their extraordinary passion for music. Playing there is always an honor.

Watch footage from my last Umbria Jazz Fest Concert

We’ll be back in New York on July 13, and heading into Birdland Jazz Club for 3 nights July 17 - 19 so I hope to see you there. I’m also excited to share that my new release Swingin’ Love Songs drops on August 28. Before then, we’ll be releasing a few singles, and I can’t wait for you to hear them.

One more thing: if you tried downloading the track I posted here on Substack and it didn’t work, please send me an email. I’ve heard there may have been a technical glitch, and I’ll happily send you the MP3 directly.

Until next week…thank you for continuing to support live music, independent artists, and the communities that keep jazz thriving.

See you down the road.

Allan