Blog Posts

Greens & Grooves "The Upward Niagara Jazz Scramble"

Thu, 27 Mar 2025 01:14:34 +0000

The Lewiston Northwest Jazz Festival, in conjunction with The Upward Niagara Chamber of Commerce, is excited to present Greens & Grooves—a unique and exciting event that goes beyond the typical golf tournament!

This isn't just any ol' golf tournament; it's non-stop entertainment while supporting your two favorite groups - The Upward Niagara Chamber of Commerce and The Lewiston Northwest Jazz Festival!

Sponsorship & Registration Now Open! Secure your spot today: https://www.lewistonjazz.com/golf

#GolfButFun #SupportLocal #UpwardNiagara #LewistonJazzFestival

Student Music Scholarship

Thu, 27 Mar 2025 01:15:50 +0000

March 25 2025
Student Music Scholarship

The Northwest Jazz Festival (also known as the Lewiston Jazz Festival) will take place on August 22 & 23, 2025. The Festival Board of Directors began planning for this year’s event last September, shortly after the end of the 2024 festival. Not only does our festival feature international and local musicians, but for the last few years we have incorporated a component that promotes music education, thanks to the generosity of Thomas Burrows. Mr. Burrows endowed the festival with $10,000 allowing for the continuum of a scholarship for 10 years. Carol Calato, Chairperson is honored and humbled to say that Mr. Burrows requested that the scholarship be made in my name as a long-time board member and advocate of music education."

The festival Board of Directors is once again pleased to offer a $1,000 scholarship to an Erie or Niagara County high school /college student beginning or continuing full time music studies at a college or university.

As Chairperson of the Board and of the scholarship program, arol Calato is esastic to offer students this opportunity. The only requirement is that the student be accepted at a college to study music or already be enrolled in a college music program. It is not necessary that the student is enrolled in jazz studies. One scholarship winner will be chosen by a committee of qualified judges.

Please help us spread the word!

The online application and scholarship link can be found at https://www.lewistonjazz.com/scholarship.

If you have any further questions, please contact the Jazz Festival office (c/o the Niagara River Region Chamber of Commerce) at 716-754-9500 or email: amanda@lewistonjazz.com.

Northwest Jazz Festival 2025 Announces a Spectacular Lineup Celebrating a Century of Jazz

Fri, 21 Mar 2025 14:46:27 +0000

March 21, 2025

A Two-Day Free Outdoor Celebration in Lewiston, NY, Showcasing Hammond B3 Organ Trios and a Saturday Night Celebration of Louis Armstrong and the Spirit of Swing!

Above: (Left) Saturday headliner Jumaane Smith will lead an ensemble in a "Celebration of Louis Armstrong and the Spirit of Swing." Friday night (Right) headliner Dan Wilson Organ Trio.

LEWISTON, NY – The 2025 Northwest Jazz Festival is set to captivate audiences on Friday, August 22nd, and Saturday, August 23rd, with a diverse and exhilarating celebration of jazz. As the largest free outdoor jazz festival in the region, attracting over 25,000 music lovers each year, this year’s event promises to honor the enduring legacy of jazz while showcasing both legendary headliners and the brightest emerging talent.

This year, the Main Stage, sponsored by Northwest Bank will host an all-star lineup that bridges jazz history and contemporary sounds. On Friday, August 22nd, experience the dynamic energy of the Dan Wilson Organ Trio—featuring celebrated organist Pat Bianchi, drummer Jeff “Tain” Watts, and extraordinary jazz guitarist Dan Wilson. On Saturday, enjoy the lively sounds of Tony Monaco’s House Party, with soulful New York City saxophonist Nick Hempton and dynamic drummer Carmen Intorre, Jr. joining the legendary jazz organist Tony Monaco.

Saturday night, headliner trumpeter and vocalist Jumaane Smith—whose work on five Grammy-winning Michael Bublé albums speaks volumes—will lead an ensemble in a Celebration of Louis Armstrong and the Spirit of Swing. This performance is especially significant as 2025 marks the 100th Anniversary of Louis Armstrong’s Hot Five’s first historic performance—a pivotal moment in jazz. Smith’s energetic and entertaining shows have sold out throughout the United States and Europe due to his dynamic talent and vibrant performances.

Rounding out the Main Stage program are captivating sets by the premier gypsy jazz group in the Buffalo region, Hot Club of Buffalo; long-time organ trio regional favorites Paradigm Shift Jazz; the soulful violins of Vibrant Strings; and the return of a performance by members of the exceptional UB Zodiaque Dance Company, which is celebrating its 50th Anniversary as well.

Friday’s festivities will welcome back the renowned Matt’s Music Vocal Performance Team before evolving into a spirited swing night on Center Street featuring the Hot Club of Buffalo, the Fredtown Stompers, and SwingBuffalo's Friday Night Dance at the Center Street Stage, sponsored by Modern DIsposal Services, headlined by the JazzBuffalo Poll winner for Favorite Jazz Group, My Cousin Toné. Saturday’s Center Street Stage will spotlight a Singer’s Showcase featuring four dynamic jazz vocal performances, including sets by the Dr. M Jazz Combo with Leslie McCulloch, Carol Lansom and Friends, the DeeAnn DiMeo Quintet, and a special appearance by 10,000 Maniacs’ lead vocalist, Mary Ramsey, and Friends.

Expanding the festival’s reach into the future of jazz, the Frontier House Stage, sponsored by Sevenson Enviromental Services, Inc. will serve as a focal point for the next generation of regional talent. Audiences will enjoy performances by the Ian Liedke Quartet, the Jay/Sharptet, the Quentet, and a closing set by the dynamic saxophonist Kevin Hall and his band.

The Peace Garden Stage, sponsored by the Niagara Falls Bridge Commission will debut the popular April Mazzone and Jack Civiletto Duo, the Laura Howse and Jennifer May Duo, the Lance Tanner Duo, and the Elliot Sneider Duo, offering fresh and innovative takes on classic sounds. Meanwhile, the DiCamillo Courtyard area will showcase intimate solo performances by Jim Gardner, Nate Kalnitz, Tim Dyet, Maria Sebastian, and Donny Frauenhofer, providing an up-close experience of pure artistry.

"We are excited to present a festival that not only pays tribute to the rich heritage of jazz but also embraces the vibrant energy of its future," said Tony Zambito, Music Director of the Northwest Jazz Festival. "We’re especially excited to celebrate Louis Armstrong and feature the Hammond B3 organ, honoring the rich history associated with its sound. This diverse lineup reflects our commitment to celebrating every facet of this remarkable art form, and we invite everyone to join us in Lewiston for an unforgettable weekend of live music, community, and celebration."

Carol Calato, Chairperson of the Board of Directors, added, "This year’s festival embodies the spirit of tradition that defines jazz. We are proud to bring together such an exceptional array of talent that honors our musical roots while paving the way for the next generation. It is a celebration of our community's passion for live music."

The festival is "FREE" to all all attendees and made possible from generous contributors: Northwest Bank, Modern Disposal Services, Sevenson Environmental Services, Inc. , Niagara Falls Bridge Commission.
Additional Sponsors include: Platinum Sponsors: Town of Lewiston, Wegmans, Niagara Frontier Publications, Gold Sponsors: Center Street Plaza, Fashion Outlets of Niagara Falls USA, Montante Group, Niagara County, Pamela & Joe Priest, Seneca Resorts & Casinos, Silver Sponsors: Brett's Tent & Awning, Fred & Bonnie Albrecht, Freed Maxick CPAs, Harold F. Hibbard & Sons, Inc., Joe Cecconi's Chrysler Complex, Judas Tree, Kimmins Terrier Foundation, Niagara Crossing Hotel & Spa, Bronze Sponsors: Amendola Property Management, Inc., Brown & Company, CPA, Frank and Patty Fracassi, Island Wraps, Jim Gardner, Keller Williams Realty, Kiwanis Club of Lewiston, Claudia Marasco, Mark Cerrone Inc., Sicoli Construction Services, Inc. Director Sponsors: Aquasol Corporation, Carmelo's Coat of Arms, Casa Antica Ristorante Italiano, First Presbyterian Church of Lewiston, Naturally Nuts, LLC, Niagara's Choice Federal Credit Union, Steve's Heating & Air Conditioning. Friends of the Festival: Louis & Alice Destino, Law Office of George S. Adamson, M.J. Colucci & Son Niagara Funeral Chapel, Rhoney Funeral Home, Inc, Herbert Westfall.

Tickets and detailed schedules are available now at www.lewistonjazz.com. Join us in honoring a century of jazz and experience the passion that continues to define this extraordinary genre.

For media inquiries, please contact: Amanda Haseley, Lewiston Jazz Festival Coordinator 716-754-9500 or amanda@lewistonjazz.com.

The Northwest Jazz Festival is an annual celebration dedicated to showcasing world-class jazz performances in Lewiston, NY, while nurturing local talent and fostering a vibrant cultural community.

Northwest Jazz Festival Fundraiser June 13th at the Lewiston Stone House

Fri, 21 Mar 2025 14:46:19 +0000

Puchase Tickets HERE

Jazz Ambassador Award

Mon, 19 Aug 2024 14:01:23 +0000

Jeff serves as the volunteer Director of Operations for the festival and is a retired Planner and Scheduler for the New York Power Authority. Jeff is responsible for interfacing with all festival electrical needs as well as handles the placement of electrical power for all of the stages to ensure that the Jazz Festival runs smoothly. In addition to his work with the Jazz Festival, Jeff is a member of the Lewiston Kiwanis Club and a member of the Tuscarora Yacht Club. For the past few decades, Jeff has been an active community volunteer implementing the layout and power requirements for many local festivals including the Niagara County Peach Festival. Jeff and his wife Sandy reside in the Town of Lewiston.

Chairwoman Carol Calato nominated Jeff for the award, with full board approval. “The Jazz Festival would definitely face an uphill climb without the expertise, time and talent from Jeff Jordan. For years Jeff has worked with the staff and board to lay out the logistics of the festival which is no small task. He does this without hesitation and leads a team of volunteers who are laying out the groundwork days before the festival takes place and are among the last to leave in the early morning hours of clean up. Jeff should be celebrated for his work and we are happy to honor him.”

Jeff will receive his award on Saturday evening prior to the 8:45pm performance.

Center Street - Closed for the Jazz Festival

Tue, 13 Aug 2024 14:46:24 +0000

Northwest Jazz Festival, Lewiston NY
Friday, August 23rd & Saturday, August 24^th 2024

Center Street will close at 5am on Friday, August 23rd from 4^th Street to 7^th Street. The cross streets at 4^th and 7^th will remain open both North and South.

Center Street will re-open on Sunday 8/25
at approximately 4am.

Fifth Street will be closed at Ridge Street to Plain Street during these same hours.

Please be sure to make any necessary arrangements for delivery trucks during these hours as vehicles that do not have a jazz festival permit will not be allowed on Center Street while it is closed for set up.

Only permitted vendor/festival vehicles will be allowed on Center Street for setup/cleanup.

What a lineup at the Jazz Festival!

Mon, 05 Aug 2024 17:19:04 +0000

The largest outdoor jazz festival in Western New York returns to Center Street in Lewiston, NY on Friday, August 23, 2024 and Saturday, August 24 as the 2024 Northwest Jazz Festival. Get ready for an unprecedented celebration of the Great American Songbook on the Main Stage during the two days of the festival. On Friday evening, the celebration kicks-off with the Pete Malinverni Trio and emerging star jazz vocalist Anaïs Reno and special guest renowned jazz guitarist Peter Bernstein. On Saturday, Jazz at the Ballroom, one of the nation’s foremost organizations sustaining the legacy of the Great American Songbook, will feature an all-star ensemble presenting three meticulously curated programs: “Get Out of Town,” “Flying High,” and “Accentuate the Positive.” This uniquely special and one-of-a-kind celebration is a presentation you won’t find at any other festival this year!

The two-day festival begins at 5pm on Friday, August 23^rd through 10:30pm, and again on Saturday, August 24^th from Noon – 10:30pm. The historic village will come alive with live music, food/beverage vendors, jewelry tent and more with five stages throughout the festival grounds. The festival is free to attend (no coolers or carry-ins) with a limited number of tickets available for preferred seating at the Main Stage, for up-close viewing, beginning at 6pm. Tickets are $25 each and available online at www.lewistonJazz.com or at the festival (limited, cash only). Patrons are encouraged to support the vendors, with seating throughout the festival grounds. Patrons can bring their own lawn chair.

Carol Calato, Chairwoman of the Board of Directors looks forward to the crowd of jazz enthusiasts. "We invite you to enjoy the talented musicians, great food, cold beverages and the authentic charm of this beautiful village. The annual jazz festival is a highlight for many! We are honored to host over 100 musicians on five stages for your entertainment. The festival has an over two-decade tradition of bringing free music to the community. Please support the vendors, and consider donating or becoming a sponsor to ensure the future of the festival.”

In addition to the Main Stage, the festival highlights musicians from Western New York and throughout the country. Swing Buffalo will present Friday Night Dance with the Anderson Big Band at the Center Street Friday night. Local vocal group, Harmonia Vocal Ensemble will perform Saturday as well as local favorite Janice Mitchell and Jim Beishline Trio. Tony Zambito, Music Director for the festival, states “We are thrilled to bring to the festival this one-of-a-kind celebration of the Great American Songbook that will offer an experience you won’t find at any other festival. In addition, we are equally excited to showcase exceptional local and regional talent that highlights the vibrant and diverse jazz community that thrives in our region.”

The Main Stage will feature hometown favorite, Pete Malinverni. Since leaving his hometown of Lewiston, NY, Pete has become a prominent figure in New York City’s jazz community since the early 1980s. He has consistently honed his craft, exploring the rich repertoire of the Great American Songbook, including compositions by Cole Porter, Duke Ellington, and Leonard Bernstein, alongside his original works. Alongside selections from the Great American Songbook, Malinverni also draws inspiration from a variety of sources, offering a sincere reflection of his identity as both an artist and an advocate of spreading joy through music. Join us for an evening of welcoming home Pete Malinverni and enjoying Pete's incredibly entertaining jazz.

Saturday evening will continue with a creative program by the Jazz at the Ballroom organization, which has presented special programs on the Great American Songbook at the country’s most respected venues such as the Kennedy Center, Skirball Cultural Center, Lobero Theatre, and at New York City’s famed Birdland. Jazz at the Ballroom will feature a lineup of rising stars led by the extraordinary jazz pianist Konrad Paszkudzki and rising star pianist/vocalist Champian Fulton. The ensemble will also feature bassist Dylan Shamat, vocalist Olivia Chindamo, vocalist Vanessa Perea, vocalist Wyatt Michael, trombonist Rob Edwards, saxophonist Adrian Cunningham, and more.

…Champian Fulton certainly proved to be as fine an accompanist as she is a world-class singer-pianist… - Nite Life Exchange

…Flying High…with distinctive voices and excellent vocal control, each singer was a treat to watch throughout the night, unique in their own way but alike in pure, raw talent… - Broadway World

The festival’s Great American Songbook Celebration will end with a Grand Finale presented by the Jazz at the Ballroom all-star ensemble on Saturday, August 24th at 8:30 pm. Look for the silver lining, walk on the sunny side of the street, and dance cheek to cheek with a swinging lineup Inspired by Bing Crosby’s 1944 hit “Accentuate the Positive.” The Grand Finale will be a night of memorable music that kept people company through the ups and downs of the 1920s to 1940s. These timeless classics will live on forever.

The festival is free to attend, made possible by the support of sponsors and donors. The presenting sponsor is Northwest Bank with Modern Disposal Services, Sevenson Environment and the Niagara Falls Bridge Commission as stage sponsors. A full sponsor listing is available online.

For additional information, visit www.LewistonJazz.com

Friday, August 23, 2024

5:30 pm - 7:00 pm	Comienzos - Frontier House Stage
6:00 pm - 7:15 pm	**Pete Malinverni Trio - Main Stage
6:00 pm - 7:30 pm	Matt's Music Vocal Performance Team - Center Street Stage
6:45 pm - 7:45 pm	Rick Strauss - DiCamillo Courtyard
7:00 pm - 8:00 pm	Simon Fletcher Duo - Peace Garden
7:45 pm - 9:15 pm	Will Holton - Frontier House Stage
8:15 pm - 9:45 pm	Swing Buffalo presents Friday Night Dance ft. Anderson Big Band - Center Street Stage
8:30 pm - 10:15 pm	**Anaïs Reno with the Pete Malinverni Trio & Special Guest Peter Bernstein - Main Stage

Saturday, August 24, 2024

1:00 pm - 1:45 pm	UB Zodiaque Dance Company - Main Stage
1:00 pm - 2:30 pm	Jonathan Hughes Quartet - Frontier House Stage
1:30 pm - 3:00 pm	Harmonia Vocal Ensemble - Center Street Stage
2:00 pm - 3:30 pm	Wazmopolitan Duo - Peace Garden
2:15 pm - 3:15 pm	Elliot Sneider Duo: Gershwin Songbook - Main Stage
3:00 pm - 4:00 pm	Stu Weissman - DiCamillo Courtyard
3:15 pm - 4:45 pm	Donny Frauenhofer Trio - Frontier House Stage
3: 45 pm - 5:15 pm	DeeAnn DiMeo Quintet - Center Street Stage
4:00 pm - 5:30 pm	Jazz at the Ballroom Presents "Get out of Town" - Main Stage
4:45 pm - 5:45 pm	Stephen Guerra Duo - Peace Garden
5:15 pm - 6:15 pm	Walt Sopicki - DiCamillo Courtyard
5:30 pm - 7:00 pm	Wes Lewis Group - Frontier House Stage
6:00 pm - 7:30 pm	Wendell Rivera Latin Jazz Ensemble - Center Street Stage
6:15 pm - 7:45 pm	**Jazz at the Ballroom Presents "Flying High" - Main Stage
7:15 pm - 8:15 pm	Ann Mitchell Trio - Peace Garden
7:30 pm - 8:30 pm	Dave Hill - DiCamillo Courtyard
7:45 pm - 9:15 pm	John Bacon Quintet - Frontier House Stage
8:15 pm - 9:45 pm	Janice Mitchell and Jim Beishline Trio - Center Street Stage
8:45 pm - 10:15 pm	**Jazz at the Ballroom Presents "Accentuate the Positive" - Main Stage

**Main Stage seating available for purchase.

2024 Carol Calato Scholarship Winner Announced

Wed, 19 Mar 2025 00:37:46 +0000

2024 Carol Calato Scholarship Winner – Anna Blickwedehl

Lewiston, NY - The Lewiston Jazz Festival Inc. Board of Directors is proud to announce Anna Blickwedehl of West Seneca, NY as the recipient of the 2024 Carol Calato Jazz Scholarship. The $1,000 scholarship is awarded each year through an application and judging process to a student majoring in a music field. The announcement is made ahead of the 2024 Festival taking place on August 23 & 24 in the Village of Lewiston.

Anna is a 2024 graduate of West Seneca West High School and will enter her freshman year this August as a B.F.A. Musical Theater student at Chicago College of Performing Arts at Roosevelt University. She has studied voice with Betsy Morgan and Kelly Ersing. Anna received the 2024 Shea’s High School Musical Theater Award as a STAGE Finalist and also received the Outstanding Lead & Supporting Performance – Gold Award. She received the West Seneca High School Student of Excellence Award in Performing Arts and was a Top 10 student in her graduating class.

Carol Calato, Jazz Board Chairwoman and scholarship chair organizes the process for scholarship selection. “Over the years our festival has always featured young musicians. We are proud to be able to help out an aspiring young musician, like Anna, with our annual scholarship. This year’s recipient is talented and determined. Anna has a bright future ahead of her.”

The application process for the 2025 scholarship will start in March of 2025 with information online at www.LewistonJazz.com

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The Northwest Jazz Festival, Lewiston, NY is a 501(c3) organization under the name of Lewiston Jazz Festival, Inc. The Village of Lewiston is host to the region’s most popular two-day free music jazz festival featuring nonstop performances on five stages and an abundance of culinary delights with Niagara region wineries.

Lewiston Jazz Festival, Inc.
P.O. Box 1522
Lewiston, NY 14092

(716) 754-9500

HOT Line Up!

Mon, 05 Aug 2024 17:12:46 +0000

We are looking forward to nearly 100 musicians performing throughout the jazz festival weekend! Mark your calendar for August 23 & 24 in the Village of Lewiston, NY!

Experience the Magic of Jazz at the Northwest Jazz Festival with Pete Malinverni, Anaïs Reno, and Peter Bernstein

Fri, 14 Jun 2024 21:07:19 +0000

Reserve Your Seats for an Unforgettable Night

The Northwest Bank Main Stage Celebration of the Great American Songbook is scheduled for Friday, August 23rd, and Saturday, August 24th.

Get ready for an unforgettable evening of jazz at the Northwest Jazz Festival in Lewiston, NY, on Friday, August 23rd. This special night celebrates the homecoming of renowned pianist Pete Malinverni and the Great American Songbook. The Friday night portion of the festival’s Main Stage presentations will feature performances by some of the most acclaimed artists in the jazz world.

The program will showcase the talents of pianist Pete Malinverni, whose deep understanding and innovative interpretations of jazz standards have earned him a revered place on the international jazz stage. Joining him is the remarkable young vocalist Anaïs Reno, who has been capturing hearts with her exquisite voice and mature artistry beyond her years. Acclaimed guitar virtuoso Peter Bernstein will also appear on stage, bringing his soulful and masterful guitar work that has influenced countless musicians.

For an in-depth look at these extraordinary performers, check out the JazzBuffalo articles featuring Pete Malinverni, Anaïs Reno, and Peter Bernstein. These articles, which also include videos, provide insight into their musical journeys, their contributions to jazz, and what you can expect from their performances at the festival. Click on the articles below:

Pete Malinverni To Kick Off Great American Songbook Celebration at the Northwest Jazz Festival in Lewiston, NY!

Posted on May 11, 2024 (May 11, 2024) by JazzBuffalo

The Northwest Bank Main Stage Celebration of the Great American Songbook is scheduled for Friday, August 23rd, and Saturday, August 24th. Friday night will mark a special homecoming as the […]

Anaïs Reno to Shine at the Great American Songbook Celebration at the Northwest Jazz Festival in Lewiston, NY!

Posted on May 17, 2024 (May 17, 2024) by JazzBuffalo

The Northwest Bank Main Stage Celebration of the Great American Songbook is scheduled for Friday, August 23rd, and Saturday, August 24th. Experience the captivating talent of Anaïs Reno at the […]

Peter Bernstein to Special Guest at the Great American Songbook Celebration at the Northwest Jazz Festival in Lewiston, NY!

Posted on May 19, 2024 (May 19, 2024) by JazzBuffalo

The Northwest Bank Main Stage Celebration of the Great American Songbook is scheduled for Friday, August 23rd, and Saturday, August 24th. Renowned and internationally acclaimed jazz guitarist Peter Bernstein is […]

Buffalo Jazz Composers Workshop at Artpark

Fri, 10 May 2024 12:33:46 +0000

(Lewiston, NY) – As part of Artpark’s 50th Anniversary Season, the Buffalo Jazz Composers Workshop featuring some of the region’s finest jazz artists and composers returns on Sunday, August 18, 2024 at 4:00PM on the Emerald Grove Stage located in the Lower Park. Part of the New Music In The Park Series.

New Music in the Park is a series of concerts held in various locations throughout Artpark’s scenic grounds and curated by Artpark and award-winning conductor and composer Brent Chancellor. The Series offers an eclectic snapshot of music, performance, and collaboration happening now with works by living, and underrepresented composers alongside iconic and legendary figures that broaden and enrich the musical conversation..

Tickets go on sale Friday, May 10 at 10AM.

Tickets are $12 and are available for purchase online at ticketmaster.com, over the phone by calling the Artpark Box Office at 716-754-4375 and at the Artpark Box Office (see current Box Office hours and locations at www.artpark.net)

This concert is presented by Artpark.

The 2024 Northwest Jazz Festival Celebrates the Great American Songbook with Unprecedented Main Stage Programming

Wed, 17 Apr 2024 16:01:53 +0000

The 2024 Northwest Jazz Festival is thrilled to announce a special tribute to the Great American Songbook at this year’s highly anticipated event. The annual festival will take place on Friday, August 23^rd and Saturday, August 24^th in the Village of Lewiston. With five stages throughout the grounds, the highlight of the festival continues to shine on the Main Stage.

Kicking off the festivities on Friday, August 23rd, is the renowned New York City jazz pianist, Pete Malinverni. A Lewiston native, Malinverni’s performance marks a homecoming celebration not to be missed. Joined by his dynamic trio, Malinverni’s innovative style and captivating stage presence are certain to captivate audiences, echoing the acclaim of his recent tribute album to Leonard Bernstein.

Later in the evening, rising jazz vocalist Anaïs Reno will grace the stage, enchanting listeners with her magnetic interpretations of jazz standards. Anaïs will be joined by the Pete Malinverni Trio and the esteemed jazz guitarist Peter Bernstein as a special guest. The quintet promises a performance that will resonate long after the final note.

Continuing the celebration on Saturday, August 24th, the festival presents a creative program by the Jazz at the Ballroom organization, which has presented special programs on the Great American Songbook at the country’s most respected venues such as the Kennedy Center, Skirball Cultural Center, Lobero Theatre, and at New York City’s famed Birdland. Jazz at the Ballroom will feature a lineup of rising stars led by the extraordinary jazz pianist Konrad Paszkudzki and featuring bassist Dylan Shamat, vocalist Olivia Chindamo, pianist/vocalist Champian Fulton, vocalist Vanessa Perea, vocalist Wyatt Michael, trombonist Rob Edwards, saxophonist Adrian Cunningham, and more. Three themed performances titled “Get Out of Town”, “Flying High”, and “Accentuate the Positive” will spotlight the timeless classics of the Great American Songbook, offering fresh perspectives and arrangements on beloved jazz standards. The Saturday portion of the festival on the Main Stage will open with a special performance by UB Zodiaque Dance for the third year in a row, followed by a tribute to George and Ira Gershwin by pianist Elliot Sneider.

“We are thrilled to present this celebration of the Great American Songbook at the Northwest Jazz Festival,” said Tony Zambito, Music Director of the festival. “This unique programming approach will showcase the best of jazz talent, from established artists to emerging stars, and we can’t wait to share the timeless music of the Great American Songbook with our audience.” Setting a new standard for jazz festival programming, the Northwest Jazz Festival offers a diverse lineup that celebrates the rich tradition of the Great American Songbook. With performances by instrumentalists and vocalists representing the next generation of jazz stars, the festival’s innovative approach promises something for every jazz lover to enjoy.

“We are eagerly anticipating this year’s festival and the exceptional lineup of talent it promises to bring,” added Carol Calato, Chairwoman of the Northwest Jazz Festival Board of Directors. “It’s a testament to the festival’s commitment to bring the best in jazz programming for the excited attendees of the festival.”

Don’t miss the celebration of the Great American Songbook on Friday, August 23rd, and Saturday, August 24th, at the Northwest Jazz Festival in Lewiston, NY. Experience top- tier jazz talent and uniquely themed performances on the Main Stage and additional stages among the stunning backdrop of outdoor scenery.

Experience front of stage seating at the festival with our exclusive Main Stage seating for the Great American Songbook Celebration at the Northwest Jazz Festival. Enjoy fabulous up-close views of the performances while seated in comfort. Plus, with in and out privileges, you can come and go as you please ensuring you never miss a moment of the extraordinary jazz performances throughout the entire festival.

Front of Stage tickets for Friday and/or Saturday performances are valid from 6pm to 10:30pm and must be purchased in advance ($40 per ticket, per day presale). For ticket information, full musician schedule and festival details visit www.lewistonjazz.com or in person at the Upward Niagara Chamber office (895 Center Street, Lewiston, NY) on weekdays from 8am – 4pm.

Superbowl Square!

Fri, 12 Jan 2024 18:02:51 +0000

Are you ready for the Superbowl? While we might not know who is going to play in the big game yet, we are gearing up for it! The Jazz Festival Board of DIrectors has decided to jump on the bandwagon and create a Superbowl Square fundraiser!

Purchase a square online here: https://www.lewistonjazz.com/superbowlsq

Congratulations Lazara!

Thu, 19 Oct 2023 13:33:15 +0000

Chairwoman Carol Calato and Music Director Tony Zambito presented Lázara Martinez with the Jazz Festival - Jazz Ambassador Award in person! It was a great night of fun, music and celebration! Lázara was out of town during the August Festival and was not able to accept the award in person. Congratulations and THANK YOU for all you do for the jazz community Lazara!

Photo: Contributed photo

2024 Musician Application

Tue, 17 Oct 2023 13:39:08 +0000

The online application process is now open for interested musicians / performing groups for the 2024 Jazz Festival. All interested musicians / performing groups MUST fill out an online application in order for the Music Committee to consider you for the festival. We receive over 100 applicaitons each year. This online process is the best way for our committee to review potential performers.

Applications are accepted through January 2024.

Please apply here: https://www.lewistonjazz.com/2024-northwest-jazz-festival-musician-application

Jazz Festival Wagon of Cheer / 50-50 winner

Tue, 19 Sep 2023 12:42:55 +0000

Congratulations to Matt C. of Lewiston, NY who won the Wagon of Cheer! We delivered the wagon and all of it's contents the week following the Jazz Festival! He was excited to win the contents!

Congratulations to Lenny from Hamburg, NY who was the winner of the 50/50 tickets! He won $1800 and donated $100 back to the Jazz Festival! Thank you Lenny! He said he is spending his winnings on a trip to London to watch the Buffalo Bills play!

Jazz Ambassador Award

Wed, 23 Aug 2023 00:33:53 +0000

The Northwest Jazz Festival highlights local, national and international musicians each year at the two-day festival. The Board of Directors also takes time to recognize the accomplishments of those who give their time and talent to further jazz in the community through the Jazz Festival Ambassador Award.

This year the award is given to Lázara Martinez, violinist and owner of Pausa art house in the historic district of Allentown in Buffalo, NY. As Lázara will be out of town during the event, festival music director Tony Zambito will accept the award on her behalf. PAUSA art house is the winner of JazzBuffalo Poll 2022 - "Best Small Jazz Venue" presenting a wide variety of music shows and artistic exhibitions from local, national and international artists. The relaxed atmosphere of the venue attracts patrons who wish to attend an intimate concert or an art exhibit while enjoying a glass of wine, beers, spirits, tapas and panini sandwiches. Lázara co- founded PAUSA art house in 2013 and is currently the sole owner and manager of all PAUSA business operations.

Chairwoman Carol Calato nominated Lázara for the award, with full board approval. “Ask any jazz musician, or jazz lover their opinion of Pausa. They rave about it. Thanks to the foresight, determination and talent of Cuban born musician, Lázara Martinez, Western New York has an intimate, award-winning venue to listen to fine performances from local, national and international artists in an intimate and relaxed setting. Lázara Martinez is well-deserving of the 2023 Jazz Ambassador Award.”

Carol Calato Jazz Scholarship Recipient Annoucned

Sun, 20 Aug 2023 22:33:43 +0000

The Lewiston Jazz Festival Inc.Board of Directors is proud to announce Benjamin Mekinulov as the recipient of the 2023 Carol Calato Jazz Scholarship. The $1,000 scholarship is awarded each year through an application and judging process to a student majoring in a music field. Ben is a senior Cello Performance major at the Cleveland Institute of Music graduating in 2024. He started lessons with Professor Feng Hew of the Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra when he was 6 years old and it has been his passion ever since. Ben has studied with Feng Hew (Buffalo Philharmonic), David Yink (Eastman School of Music) and Dr. Melissa Kraut (Cleveland Institute of Music).

Benjamin has served as the Principal cellist of the Greater Buffalo Youth Orchestra and recipient of First Prize of the Tuesday Morning Competition and Gold Medal Winner of the Cleveland Cello Society Scholarship.

The application process for the 2024 scholarship will start in March of 2024 with information online at www.LewistonJazz.com