Tilles Center announces full lineup for third annual Jazz Fest
Tilles Jazz Fest returns to the Long Island University campus in Brookville on Saturday, July 18, for a full day of world-class jazz, family-friendly programming, and vibrant community celebration across four stages, with gates opening at noon.
Presented in collaboration with Jazz at Lincoln Center, this year’s festival brings together legendary artists and rising stars in the jazz world. Complemented by top LIU student and alumni ensembles, the day will be an immersive indoor/outdoor experience, including food trucks and artisans, a free swing dance lesson and a second line parade leading festival goers to the evening headliner, The Buena Vista Orchestra, celebrating the legacy of Cuban music with musicians from the Buena Vista Social Club tradition.
“Tilles Jazz Fest has become a standout summer celebration of jazz, bringing together extraordinary artists and audiences from across the region,” said Georgina Javor, VP of concerts and touring at Jazz at Lincoln Center. “We are proud to continue our partnership with Tilles Center and look forward to another unforgettable festival.”
Other featured performances include Grammy-nominated percussionist Bobby Sanabria & Ascensión, blending Afro-Cuban jazz with big band flair; acclaimed Brazilian guitarist and composer Chico Pinheiro in a solo guitar performance; the William Hill III Trio, showcasing a blend of jazz tradition and contemporary innovation; the Kal Ferretti Quartet celebrating the centennial of Miles Davis; the Jarien Jamanila Trio’s Coltrane at 100 Celebration; Bluesy Beats and Jazzy Treats with Dan and Claudia Zanes, a family-friendly set of jazz music; emerging vocalist Ruby Laks; performances by talented student ensembles; and a New Orleans-style second-line parade led by the Hot Jazz All-Stars and trumpeter Bria Skonberg, with all artists and audience members invited to join the celebration.
“This festival captures the spirit of jazz, where iconic voices and emerging artists share the stage,” said Tom Dunn, executive and artistic director of Tilles Center. “It’s an energizing celebration of artistry, innovation, and community, set in a place that inspires creativity at every turn.”
With performances taking place throughout the Tilles Center Concert Hall, the historic Winnick House, and two scenic outdoor stages on the Great Lawn and beneath the University Arches, festivalgoers can enjoy music across the LIU campus. Children ages 12 and under attend free, and guests are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and blankets for a day of relaxed listening and musical discovery. Families can also enjoy the Swingin’ Kidz Zone, featuring an Instrument Petting Zoo, crafts, and face painting.
A variety of food and shopping options are available throughout the day, and attendees are welcome to bring their own picnic. Tilles Jazz Fest is supported by a Market New York grant awarded through Empire State Development and I LOVE NY, New York State’s Division of Tourism. Tickets for Tilles Jazz Fest can be purchased online at TillesCenter.org or Ticketmaster.com.
