Russell King
President
About the Party
Music. Friendship. Legacy.
The San Diego Jazz Party presents classic mainstream jazz in an intimate setting while helping sustain the music for future generations.
About SDJ
A rich tradition of live, mainstream jazz.
The renowned San Diego Jazz Party carries on an annual tradition of presenting classic, mainstream jazz to the public. The weekend-long party brings exceptional musicians from across the country and around the world together in a relaxed, intimate setting where audiences can experience the music up close.
Tickets & Discounted Marriott Hotel Reservations Are Available Now The San Diego Jazz Party is gearing up for an unforgettable 2027 celebration—one that blends world‑class music, a fresh new venue, and the irresistible charm of America’s Finest City. If you’ve ever thought about making the trip to San Diego for a weekend of pure jazz joy, this is the year to pack your bags.
We’re thrilled to welcome back Frank Vignola and Vinny Raniolo, reuniting for several sets that promise dazzling virtuosity and irresistible charm. Their last appearance together brought the house down, and 2027 offers a rare chance to hear them side‑by‑side again—especially for West Coast fans who rarely get the opportunity.And that’s just the beginning. The 2027 Jazz Legend is Danny Coots, whose extraordinary career and boundless energy have made him a favorite on stages across the country. His performances are always electric—full of joy, swing, and the kind of musical storytelling that reminds you why live jazz matters.
Chuck Redd, Dan Barrett and Richard Simon will each lead extended sets designed to stretch out, dig deep, and explore musical themes with the freedom only longer formats allow. These sessions are where magic happens—unexpected moments, spontaneous interplay, and musicians pushing each other to new heights. A Weekend Full of Signature Experiences The beloved Big Band Brunch returns, offering a one‑of‑a‑kind chance to hear top‑tier musicians bring classic stock jazz charts roaring back to life. Under Dan Barrett’s leadership and arranging expertise, the room becomes a time machine—transporting listeners to the golden era of swing. We’re also delighted to welcome Parker Weis (clarinet) and Rickey Woodard (saxophone) to the San Diego lineup for the very first time. Their artistry adds fresh color and excitement to an already exceptional roster. And of course… there will be surprises. There are always surprises. Supporting the Next Generation of Jazz Beyond the performances, the San Diego Jazz Party continues its proud tradition of nurturing young musicians. We will again offer Master Classes for high school jazz students and scholarships for university‑level jazz studies, ensuring that the future of mainstream jazz remains bright, vibrant, and deeply rooted.
The people behind the Party
Organization
San Diego Jazz Party is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization chartered under federal and California law. Tax-deductible contributions help keep the festival going, and revenue beyond event expenses supports youth jazz activities at the high-school and college levels.
Our volunteer Board of Directors leads the organization, presents the annual event, and helps ensure this music continues reaching appreciative audiences and emerging musicians.
Interested in volunteering? Contact:
Sandi Joyce
Vice President
Don Fall
Treasurer
Deborah Morrison
Secretary
Jennifer Reid
Volunteer Coordinator
Janet Fall
Member at Large
Our purpose
Keeping a uniquely American art form alive.
SDJP was established “to provide the public an opportunity to hear live performances” of jazz.
The organization works to deepen public knowledge and appreciation of mainstream jazz and its contribution to American culture. When finances permit, SDJP also encourages and assists promising young jazz musicians at the high-school and college levels.
Discover
Legends
Honor the musicians whose artistry and generosity shaped the Party.
Remember
Past performances
Browse rosters and memories from more than three decades of jazz.