The annual Detroit Jazz Festival has returned for its 46th iteration, offering free admission and a showcase of world-class performers. The four-day event commenced on September 1, 2023, in the heart of Detroit, celebrating the city’s rich jazz heritage and featuring numerous musicians from around the globe.
Chris Collins, President and Artistic Director of the Detroit Jazz Festival, emphasized the profound connection between Detroit and jazz music. “Jazz has greatly influenced the culture of this city, but many of the artists and cultures of Detroit have significantly influenced the actual language of jazz,” Collins stated. The festival spans multiple venues, with performances taking place from Hart Plaza to Midtown, highlighting both local talent and international stars.
Among the renowned artists set to perform are Kenny Barron, Chucho Valdes, Paquito D’Rivera, and the Maria Schneider Orchestra. Collins also noted that this year’s artist-in-residence is the acclaimed Jason Moran, promising an exciting lineup that reflects both tradition and innovation in jazz.
For many performers, the festival represents a unique opportunity. Daniel Winshall, a returning musician at the event, expressed his enthusiasm for the festival’s free admission policy. “You get a soulful audience and people who really want to be there. Everyone’s having a good time, everybody’s vibing,” he remarked.
The festival also features international talent, with groups like one from Tottori, Japan. Takumi Inoue, a member of the Japanese ensemble, described their music as melodious and “bopish.” He shared his excitement about introducing Tottori jazz to the Detroit audience, saying, “We are bringing Tottori jazz to Detroit jazz.”
In addition to the music, the festival enhances the local economy, with various vendors participating. Tony Shaw, co-owner of Big Dog Hot Dog Street Grill, shared his personal history with jazz, recalling, “My first album was Herbie Hancock. Ever since, I’ve been a jazz fan.”
Approximately one-third of festival attendees hail from outside the region, offering a chance to showcase Detroit’s culture and hospitality. Collins noted the significance of this influx, stating, “They really get an experience, and they get to taste Detroit culture and hospitality, and it really sets a lot of people straight.”
As the festival unfolds over the four days, it continues to highlight not only the music that Detroit has offered but also the community’s spirit and resilience, reinforcing the city’s status as a vital hub for jazz. The Detroit Jazz Festival remains a testament to the enduring legacy of jazz music and its ability to unite people from various backgrounds in celebration of art and culture.
