The annual Detroit Jazz Festival has officially commenced, celebrating its 46th year with a lineup of world-class performers and free admission. Held in the Motor City from September 1 to September 4, 2023, this four-day event highlights Detroit’s rich jazz heritage while featuring dozens of musicians from around the globe.
Chris Collins, President and Artistic Director of the Detroit Jazz Festival, emphasized the city’s profound connection to jazz. “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,” he stated. The festival showcases music across four stages, with performances spanning from Hart Plaza to Midtown.
Among the renowned artists appearing at this year’s festival are Kenny Barron, Chucho Valdes, Paquito D’Rivera, and the Maria Schneider Orchestra. Additionally, Jason Moran serves as the festival’s artist-in-residence, promising a dynamic experience for attendees.
Musician Daniel Winshall, who is performing at the festival for the third time, expressed his enthusiasm for the event’s accessibility. “You get a soulful audience and people who really want to be there, and it’s great. Everyone’s having a good time, everybody’s vibing, I love it,” Winshall noted.
The festival also embraces international talent. A group from Tottori, Japan, led by Takumi Inoue, is excited to share their unique sound. “Our compositions are based on Tottori and really melodious and bopish,” Inoue shared. He added, “We are bringing Tottori jazz to Detroit jazz,” highlighting the cultural exchange that the festival fosters.
Vendors are equally thrilled to participate in the event, with many being jazz enthusiasts themselves. Tony Shaw, co-owner of Big Dog Hot Dog Street Grill, recounted his long-standing love for jazz, which began with receiving a Herbie Hancock album in 1970. “This is just my kind of music,” Shaw said, reflecting the community spirit that the festival inspires.
Approximately one-third of festival attendees travel from outside the region, providing an opportunity to showcase Detroit’s culture and hospitality. Collins pointed out that this experience allows visitors to truly engage with the city. “They really get an experience, and they get to taste Detroit culture and hospitality, and it really sets a lot of people straight,” he remarked.
As the festival unfolds, it promises to be not only a celebration of jazz but also a testament to Detroit’s enduring legacy in the music world. Whether through performances or community interactions, the Detroit Jazz Festival continues to be a vital part of the city’s cultural landscape.