Ushering in spring's warmth with musical delights, the Boscov's Berks Jazz Fest is back and better than ever! Presented by Berks Arts, the festival is an absolute must for music lovers in Berks County. Led by passionate staff and a dedicated team of over 200 volunteers, the festival has been running for an impressive 32 years, drawing in nearly 30,000 annual visitors from across the globe.

But the Berks Jazz Fest isn't just about music – it's also a celebration of the arts! The festival proudly hosts The Art of Jazz, a juried art exhibit featuring the work of local artists, as well as get jazzed, an educational program that allows students to learn, perform, and be inspired by professional musicians. It's a testament to the festival's commitment to paying it forward and inspiring future generations.

The incredible diversity of performers from various backgrounds and genres sets this festival apart. From world-renowned musicians to emerging artists, the 10-day festival offers dozens of free and ticketed concerts in venues across the region. Be sure to get tickets for your favorite musicians, but also take time to attend free live-music events featuring local musicians at clubs and restaurants throughout the area.

Berks Jazz Fest opening weekend welcomes the incredible sounds of jazz greats, Brian Culbertson, The Manhattan Transfer, and Chris Botti. The week progresses with a jazz jam concert featuring the talents of Gerald Veasley, Aubrey Logan, Andrew Neu, and Albert Rivera, and a community concert with the U.S. Air Force Rhythm In Blue Jazz Ensemble. Other midweek events include a nod to Nat King Cole and the Ladies of Song with John Pizzarelli and Catherine Russell, various Berks Scholastic concerts, and the Chuck Loeb Memorial All-Star Jam.

The 32nd Berks Jazz Fest ends with exciting performances from Eric Marienthal & the Jazz Cruises All-Stars, Adam Hawley's West Coast Groove and Victor Wooten & The Wooten Brothers Just take a look at what’s in store at local venues and visit the website for more concerts and events.  

  

                                                                                                   

Celebrating Women in Jazz

DoubleTree by Hilton Grand Ballroom, 701 Penn Street, Reading, PA

You’ll be swept away by the incredible talents of these extraordinary female jazz musicians at the upcoming Celebrating Women in Jazz concert! After the resounding success of last year's event, producer Chris "Big Dog" Davis assembled an incredible new group of performers that are sure to delight and inspire you.

This year's lineup offers the talents of experienced vocalists like Regina Belle, Avery Sunshine, Maysa, and Lori Williams. Joining them on stage will be the extraordinary Karen Briggs, a virtuoso on the violin. Also taking the stage will be the incredibly talented Kayla Waters, a pianist, singer, and composer who seamlessly blends jazz, R&B, and pop, and renowned saxophonist Jazmin Ghent. Get your tickets now for the "Celebrating Women in Jazz" concert at Jazz Fest in Berks County!

Boney James

Scottish Rite Cathedral, 310 South Seventh Avenue, West Reading

The 32nd Annual Berks Jazz Fest ends on a high note with the electrifying sounds of Boney James! This talented saxophonist has a tenured history with the festival and has been shaping contemporary urban jazz sounds for over 30 years, captivating audiences with his unique blend of contemporary jazz, R&B, and soul.

In 1992, James released his first album as a leader, "Trust," which was just the beginning of his incredible discography of 18 albums. Over the years, James has received four Grammy nominations, a Soul Train Award, and has been nominated twice for the NAACP Image Award for Best Jazz Album.