Universal Temple of the Arts Staten Island JAZZ Festival 36

Universal Temple of the Arts (UTA) Staten Island JAZZ Festival returns to the St. George Theatre for its 36th rendition of jazz excellence on Friday, December 20, 2024, from 7:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. The festival will feature performances by:

CAMILLE THURMAN with the Darrell Green Quartet, an esteemed saxophonist, composer, and vocalist known for her captivating stage presence and innovative approach to jazz.

LAKECIA BENJAMIN, an alto saxophonist who plays jazz that is sprinkled with the rich flavors of funk and soul—she’s a crafty traditionalist who remains in step with the rhythms of the young generation,

BRANDEE YOUNGER, a groundbreaking harpist who is redefining the role of the harp in contemporary music;

OLATUJA,  a mesmerizing vocalist with a powerful voice and a wide-ranging repertoire

The festival will also honor Tracy Hyter-Suffern, Director of the National Jazz Museum in Harlem, and Robin Bell-Stevens, Executive Director of Jazzmobile, for their extraordinary and significant contributions to the jazz world. Hosted by WBGO 88.3 FM on-air personality Sheila E. Anderson and curated by UTA’s Musical Director, Dr. Darrell Smith, this festival promises a joyful, hip, eclectic night of jazz.