Everything You Need to Know About Jazz in the Park 2024

By Abigail Harrison, DHI Communications Coordinator

Jazz in the Park 2024 is set to kick off on September 1 and 2, marking the start of Huntsville Music Month. Known for its vibrant atmosphere and world-class performances, Jazz in the Park has grown to become a beloved event in Huntsville since its inception in 2015.

This year’s lineup features some of the finest smooth jazz artists from around the world. Headliners include Jakiem Joyner, a talented saxophonist, Althea Renee, a renowned flautist, BK Jackson, another gifted saxophonist, JJ Sansaverino, a masterful guitarist, and Marcus Anderson, a versatile multi-instrumentalist.

In addition to the headliners, each concert will also feature an opening and pre-opening act. The diverse lineup is an intentional part of Jazz in the Park, showcasing a range of instruments, genres, and both local and regional talent.

The 2024 performers are:

Sunday, September 1

  • 5 p.m. – Joe Rozum

  • 6 p.m. – Jeff Bradshaw

  • 7:30 p.m. – Jakiem Joyner

Monday, September 2

  • 5 p.m. – Cameron Sankey

  • 6 p.m. – Dalen Minnifield

  • 7:30 p.m. – Althea Renee

Sunday, September 8

  • 5 p.m. – N’General

  • 6 p.m. – Sherry Reeves

  • 7:30 p.m. – BK Jackson

Sunday, September 15

  • 5 p.m. – Nina Marie

  • 6 p.m. – Tony & The Kings

  • 7:30 p.m. – JJ Sansaverino

Sunday, September 22

  • 5 p.m. – Noelette Leader

  • 6 p.m. – Dominque Hammond

  • 7:30 p.m. – Marcus Anderson

New to this year’s schedule, Jazz in the Park will have a two-night opening during Labor Day weekend, a departure from the traditional Sunday-only schedule. Another new addition, a local high school jazz band, N’General from Lee High School, will play as the pre-opening act on September 8. And on September 15, Jazz in the Park will honor Hispanic Heritage Month with a special performance by Tony & The Kings, a Latin jazz fusion band from Miami, Florida. This inclusion highlights the event's commitment to celebrating cultural diversity through music.

Community involvement remains a cornerstone of Jazz in the Park. Dance groups like the Chicago Steppers of Huntsville, Rocket Westies, and Saturn JiVe Dance Space will be doing free performances, so attendees can enjoy various dance styles like swing dancing and Chicago stepping. An expanded exhibitor space will also be featured, showcasing event sponsors and other local organizations.

For the foodies out there, this year's event will feature approximately 38 food trucks over five days, offering a wide variety of cuisines, including vegan options. To streamline the food experience, Jazz in the Park is partnering with Cut the Line, a tech-based app that allows attendees to order food in advance, minimizing wait times and maximizing enjoyment.

Beyond the music, Jazz in the Park plays a vital role in the mission of the City of Huntsville's Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, which works to ensure that all community members feel valued and represented across various sectors, including the arts.

“Jazz is a universal form of music that anybody can connect with, but Jazz in the Park is more than just a music experience,” said Kenny Anderson, Director of the Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. “Jazz in the Park is an opportunity for one of the most diverse groups in Huntsville to come together. People from many different backgrounds, ethnic groups, and cultures will come out and be a part of this event.”

One of the most impactful aspects of the event is the Master Class Series offered to local high schools. After the festival, headlining artists will visit schools to conduct sessions on music theory, performance, and personal development.

"Whether those students want to continue to play instruments or not, it's really all about character building and growth," Anderson emphasized.

Whether you’re a jazz enthusiast or simply looking for a family-friendly outing, Jazz in the Park offers something for everyone. It’s a unique opportunity to enjoy exceptional music, connect with the community, and experience a homegrown event that reflects the spirit of Huntsville.

"This is a family-friendly environment where people are going to see world-class artists at peak performance in a safe, dynamic, community-engaging space,” Anderson said.

To learn more about the event, download the official Jazz in the Park online program or follow the event’s Facebook page. If you can’t make it out to the festivities this year but still want to hear the music, click here to listen to a Spotify playlist that features a majority of the performers.