Recap: Community Gathers for 17th Annual Stan Michels Jazz Festival

On Saturday, July 26, we gathered at Stan Michels Promenade to celebrate jazz and community at the 17th Annual Stan Michels Jazz Festival, honoring the late City Council Member Stan Michels.

Opening remarks were delivered by Jana La Sorte, Executive Director of the Fort Tryon Park Trust; Steve Simon, former chief of staff to Stan Michels; and Congressman Adriano Espaillat.

The festival began with a vibrant set by the Kobie Dozier Quartet, whose energy set the tone for the afternoon. The headlining performance featured beloved Harlem jazz icons Marjorie Eliot and Rudel Drears, joined by their ensemble. Hundreds gathered under the shade for a lively afternoon of live jazz (with lemonade and cookies!).

Presented by the Fort Tryon Park Trust, the festival continues to be a celebration of jazz and community, set against the backdrop of one of New York City’s most beautiful parks.