Jason Moran, an acclaimed pianist and educator, has been named the artist-in-residence for the 2024 Detroit Jazz Festival, which will take place from August 29 to September 1 in downtown Detroit. This marks the 46th annual iteration of the festival, which will feature performances across two stages in Hart Plaza and one in Campus Martius Park. Moran, who has played at numerous festivals in the past, expressed surprise at receiving this honor.
“It always seemed like an exciting prospect, to share a number of sets with the Detroit listening public,” said Moran, reflecting on his journey. At 50, he feels a mix of excitement and apprehension, admitting he is “sort of terrified” as he prepares for three unique performances during the festival.
Moran recognizes the significance of the Detroit audience, stating, “The city of Detroit has taught the world to listen to music. It’s taught me how to listen to music.” He attributes this deep appreciation for music to the cultural history and proficiency of Detroit’s residents, noting that musicians from the city often share their roots with pride.
Born in Houston, Moran studied at the Manhattan School of Music and launched his professional career in 1997 with saxophonist Greg Osby. His discography includes a debut solo album in 1998 with Blue Note Records and his latest release, Refract, in 2023. Over the years, he has collaborated with notable artists such as Charles Lloyd, Cassandra Wilson, and Christian McBride. In 2022, he was inducted into the American Academy of Arts and Sciences, and in 2023, he received the German Jazz Prize for Pianist of the Year.
Festival Highlights and Unique Collaborations
Moran’s participation this year will open with an innovative performance on August 29, collaborating with electronic music legend Jeff Mills and featuring poet and singer Jessica Care Moore as a special guest. “Techno has long been a thing I’ve listened to and practiced with sometimes, at home. So why not, when you’re in Detroit, really represent it?” Moran remarked, emphasizing the blending of genres in an industrial city setting.
On August 31, he will recreate a special concert celebrating the 125th birthday of Duke Ellington, which will feature the festival’s Collegiate Jazz Orchestra. The festival will culminate on September 1 with a performance by his ensemble, Bandwagon, alongside special guests Meshell Ndegeocello and Akili.
Throughout the weekend, Moran plans to honor the late Geri Allen, a mentor and musical influence. He recalls her advice and the profound impact she had on his artistry. “Every once in a while, Geri Allen is gonna show up there because to me she represented the true synthesis of a true artist,” he stated, expressing his intent to pay tribute to her legacy.
Moran believes that the festival’s location in Detroit enhances its significance, stating, “What makes this festival unique is the importance of Detroit as a historic music city for the world.” He looks forward to presenting music that reflects the city’s rich heritage and its role in shaping musical innovation.
The Detroit Jazz Festival promises a diverse lineup and a celebration of jazz culture with performances streamed live on detroitjazzfest.org/live. For more information, including the full schedule, festival-goers can visit the festival’s official website.
