This was the 38th Jazz Fest that always deserves national and international admiration and attention put together by founder Frank Malfitano . The headliners produced some of the finest and varied jazz music and related music available anywhere in the world. Last year, Herbie Hancock and Gladdas Knight performed to huge overflowing crowds, and this year was not much different. People who came to Syracuse Jazz Fest this year were plenty, and from all over the east coast and beyond, including some Canadian folks I met. In addition, I met a couple who just happened upon the festival traveling by Syracuse and decided to stay for the last 3 days. They were extremely impressed with Syracuse and the music lineup.

This years artists (6/27) included Bill O’Connell, Catherine Russell, young and extremely talented McKinley James, and the ever popular, The Mavericks, who really had the crowd moving. On (6/28), it was Jane Bunnett and Maqueque, Freda Payne Big Band, and from Sweden, the Gunhild Carling Big Band (so fun! - she directs, she sings, she plays the horns, and she swings !) and to end the night the one and only great, Kenny G. Kenny G. is simply an amazing musician. The final night (6/29) included one of the best, James Carter, singer-song writer Gino Vannelli (I just wanna stop) and the band. They really impressed and with some heavy jazz fusion mix. Gino and the band were excellent ! Closing the night - The R/B Soul of the O' Jays. Anyone who came to see the O' Jays was not disappointed. On their declared final tour, 60 yrs of music was enjoyed in a span of 90 minutes, and the Syracuse Jazz Fest was lucky enough to be on that tour. Songs performed included Love Train, For the Love of Money, Back Stabbers, Used Ta Be My Girl, and I Love Music.

Another successful Syracuse Jazz Festival is a wrap, and we all look forward to next year. Every year is a showcase of world-renowned talent. Looking forward to Syracuse Jazz Fest 2025.

Credit: C.Schilling

Gallery From June 27,2024 Here

Gallery From June 28,2024 Here

Gallery From June 29,2024 Here