Rochester Jazz Festival Returns with 300 Shows, Free Concerts, and Count Basie Orchestra Finale

The 23rd annual festival will run from June 19-27 with a lineup of acclaimed artists and educational workshops.

Mar. 31, 2026 at 12:57pm

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The Rochester International Jazz Festival is set to return from June 19-27 with over 300 shows, jam sessions, and workshops. The nine-day event will feature free concerts, a ticketed headliner series including the legendary Count Basie Orchestra, and a new gathering space called the Rochester Regional Health Rhythm Square. The festival will also offer free jazz workshops at the Eastman School of Music.

Why it matters

The Rochester International Jazz Festival is a major cultural event that draws thousands of music fans to the city each year, providing a boost to the local economy and showcasing Rochester's vibrant arts scene. The festival's mix of free and ticketed shows, as well as its educational programming, make it an accessible and enriching experience for both longtime jazz enthusiasts and newcomers.

The details

This year's festival will include over 300 shows, jam sessions, and workshops across multiple venues in downtown Rochester. The Ticketed Headliner Series will feature performances by Chris Botti, Gladys Knight, and the Count Basie Orchestra, who will close out the festival on June 27. The new Rochester Regional Health Rhythm Square will serve as a central gathering space with free shows each night. Jazz workshops at the Eastman School of Music will allow students of all ages to learn directly from the festival's performing artists.

  • The Rochester International Jazz Festival will run from Friday, June 19, to Saturday, June 27, 2026.
  • The Count Basie Orchestra will perform as the final headliner on Saturday, June 27, at 8 p.m. at Kodak Hall at Eastman Theatre.
  • Jazz workshops will take place from Monday, June 22, to Friday, June 26, at the Eastman School of Music.

The players

Marc Iacona

Co-producer of the Rochester International Jazz Festival.

John Nugent

Co-producer of the Rochester International Jazz Festival.

Count Basie Orchestra

The legendary jazz orchestra that will perform as the final headliner of the festival.

Chris Botti

A renowned jazz trumpeter who will perform as a headliner during the festival.

Gladys Knight

The iconic R&B singer who will perform as a headliner during the festival.

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What they’re saying

“'This year's program will cover all facets of creative improvised music, with a special emphasis on emerging artists. It's always been our firm belief that 'it's not who you know, it's who you don't know!' We look forward to seeing everyone on Jazz Street!'”

— John Nugent, Co-producer of the Rochester International Jazz Festival

What’s next

The festival's full schedule of events, including the lineup of free shows and ticketed headliners, will be released in the coming weeks. Tickets for the Ticketed Headliner Series will go on sale to the public on April 15, 2026.

The takeaway

The Rochester International Jazz Festival continues to be a must-attend event for music lovers, offering a diverse lineup of acclaimed artists, free community programming, and educational opportunities that make the festival accessible to audiences of all ages and backgrounds. The festival's ability to adapt and evolve, while maintaining its core mission of celebrating jazz and supporting emerging talent, is a testament to its enduring popularity and importance within the local arts community.