CHICAGO JAZZ FESTIVAL 2019

AUGUST 29 - SEPTEMBER 1

Lionel Cole

The 41st Chicago Jazz Festival took place in Chicago during ten days at the end of August, culminating with Labor Day weekend. More than 100 groups performed free concerts in various venues around the city and on multiple stages in Millennium Park. Some of the top talented musicians in the world gathered in the Windy City to play for enthusiastic crowds. The Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs organized this hugely popular event.

Mike Reed

Nasheet Waits

Christian McBride

Camila Meza singing and playing the guitar

Nat King Cole's brother, Freddy, played the piano and sang some familiar tunes. Eddie's extroverted son, Lionel, took the seat at the piano and belted a few of his own.

Steve Berry

Freddy Cole

Mike Reed, curator of the book, The City was Yellow, a compilation of musical compositions from 1980 - 2010, performed with other musicians from The Jazz Institute of Chicago, currently celebrating its 50th year. Reed explained that the title was based on the yellow color of the lights that pervaded the City at that time.

Geof Bradfield

Marcus Strickland

Christian McBride, maestro on bass, along with a talented group of musicians, impressed the audience with their rhythm and expertise playing their instruments.

The final night featured a Latin jazz theme. Guitarist and singer Camila Meza entertained the crowd, followed by a group of musicians that came together for this performance calling themselves, Latin America Unida. They were made up of skillful musical artists, including Marissa Aldana, the only non-singer who has won the Thelonious Monk award, as well as Oscar-winner Antonio Sanchez on drums.

Grammy-winner Cécile McLorin Salvant wrapped up Saturday night. Her melodious voice was a pleasure to listen to.

Cécile McLorin Salvant

The Eddie Palmieri sextet was the headliner group that closed the Chicago Jazz Festival. This group had people dancing in the aisles before the night was through.