Community Arts Program (CAP) of Coral Gables Presents Guitarist Leonela Alejandro July 23, 2026

Community Arts Program (CAP)

2026 Summer Concert Series

41st Season of Excellence!

The Community Arts Program (CAP) 2026 Summer Concert Series continues 7:30 p.m. Thursday, July 23 with Leonela Alejandro. Leonela Alejandro is the grand-prize winner in the 2024 Guitar Foundation of America International Concert Artist Competition. An intimate performer of captivating power and energy!

“A great player… bold and unique as a musician and a person.” – René Izquierdo

Other concerts include: August 6 – Clayton Stephenson, Van Cliburn International Piano Competition finalist! / August 20 – Kate Kortum, 2025 Sarah Vaughan International Jazz Vocal Competition first-prize winner!

Tickets $35-$50 / 305.448.7421, ext. 120 / www.CommunityArtsProgram.org

($5 more at the door on concert nights)

Free and convenient parking included!

 WEBSITE

FACEBOOK

INSTAGRAM

Savvy Stay Tourist Lodging & Info

Check out the CAP 2026 Summer Concert Series article in Artburst Miami!

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2026 Florida Regional Blues Challenges Announcements & Information - International Blues Challenge (IBC) 2027 Ramps Up

Updated: July 20, 2026

The information here is updated as it is 

received from the Blues Societies.

Florida regional competitions in 2026 to determine contenders at the International Blues Challenge 2027, presented by The Blues Foundation, in Memphis, TN on January 19–23, 2027.

The International Blues Challenge represents the worldwide search for blues bands and solo/duo performers ready for the international stage, yet just needing that extra big break. The world’s largest gathering of blues musicians takes place on Beale Street, with over 20 clubs hosting challengers and fans. In addition to the competition rounds, IBC week offers seminars, showcases, master classes, film screenings, networking events, book signings, and receptions for blues societies, fans, and professionals. The list of 2026 International Blues Challenge Contenders (Bands, Solo-Duos, Youth) is posted HERE.

STATUS AND INFO FOR FLORIDA COMPETITIONS

Blues Society of Northwest Florida

COMPETITION DATE: XXX

LOCATION: Seville Quarter, Pensacola, FL

CONTENDERS:

WINNERS:

Treasure Coast Blues Society

COMPETITION DATE: xxxx

LOCATION: xxxx

Web Page

CONTENDERS:

WINNERS:

North Central Florida Blues Society

COMPETITION DATE: Sunday, October 11, 2026

LOCATION: Heartwood Soundstage, Gainesville, FL

Event Info Web Page

CONTENDERS:

WINNERS:

First Coast Blues Society

COMPETITION DATE: xxxx

LOCATION: xxxx

CONTENDERS: ?

WINNERS: ?

Southwest Florida Blues Society

NOT PARTICIPATING THIS YEAR.

Villages Blues Society

CONTENDERS: ?

WINNERS: ?

Daytona Beach Blues Society

CONTENDERS: ?

WINNERS: ?

Orange Blossom Blues Society

COMPETITION DATE: Sunday, September 20, 2026

LOCATION: The Alley, Sanford, FL

Event Info Web Page

CONTENDERS: ?

WINNERS: ?

South Florida Blues Society

CONTENDERS: ?

WINNERS: ?

Suncoast Blues Society

CONTENDERS: ?

WINNERS: ?

UNAFFILIATED WITH THE BLUES FOUNDATION (2023):

• Big Bend Blues Society – INACTIVE
• Nature Coast Friends of Blues – INACTIVE
• Fort Pierce Jazz & Blues Society

ATTN: Florida Blues Societies
If you would like to have your organization's IBC info posted here, including results, please email details to Charlie@JazzBluesFlorida.com. Please send any updates and/or corrections to this address. Thank you.

STATS-n-FACTS

Florida IBC Winner History:

In 2006, the Joey Gilmore Band won the Best Band prize at the IBC.

1991      The Roach Thompson Band        Miami, Florida

1992      Piano Bob & the Snowman (Robert Wilder & Ken Minahan)       Miami, Florida

2006    Joey Gilmore Band 

2009      J.P. Soars and the Red Hots         South Florida Blues Society

2013      Selwyn Birchwood          Suncoast Blues Society

Affiliated Blues Societies by State

As of 8/21/23.

• Florida – 10 (Includes First Coast; not listed as an affiliate for unknown reason.)
• California – 6
• Texas – 6
• Arkansas – 5
• Illinois – 5
• Iowa – 5
• Michigan – 4
• Missouri – 4
• New York – 4
• Ohio – 4
• Arizona – 3
• Colorado – 3
• Indiana – 3
• North Carolina – 3
• Pennsylvania – 3
• Tennessee – 3
• Kansas – 2
• Kentucky – 2
• Nevada – 2
• New Jersey – 2
• Oregon – 2
• Virginia – 2
• Washington – 2
• Wisconsin – 2
• Alabama – 1
• Connecticut – 1
• Delaware – 1
• Georgia – 1
• Louisiana – 1
• Maine – 1
• Maryland – 1
• Massachusetts – 1
• Minnesota – 1
• Mississippi – 1
• Nebraska – 1
• New Hampshire – 1
• South Carolina – 1
• Vermont – 1
• West Virginia – 1
• Alaska – 0
• Hawaii – 0
• Idaho – 0
• Montana – 0
• New Mexico – 0
• North Dakota – 0
• Oklahoma – 0
• Rhode Island – 0
• South Dakota – 0
• Utah – 0
• Wyoming – 0

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Chicago Blues Documentary Featuring John Primer Premieres Online This Weekend — Your Invitation to the Show

View as web page.

The following message is being forwarded from Lisa Primer to announce
and promote a documentary film that is premiering online this weekend.
As a follower of Jazz & Blues Florida, you are aware of John Primer's extremely successful tours throughout Florida in recent years. John is also a central figure in this film. If you appreciate his blues, you will appreciate the music even more after learning where it came from. Aside - John returns to Florida in early 2027!

Hi Friends,

Many of you have been listening to John's music for years, but before there were world tours, awards, and recordings, there was Theresa's Lounge.

For John and for so many of Chicago's greatest blues musicians, it was where they learned from the masters, earned their first paying gigs, and became part of a musical family.

I'm so excited to invite you to see the new documentary, The Basement That Built the Blues: A Tribute to Theresa's Lounge.

This documentary was made while John Primer, Billy Branch, Bob Stroger, Willie Buck, Mary Lane, Carlos Johnson, John Watkins, Harmonica Hinds, Twist Turner, Tony Mangiullo, and Jeff Brinkman came together to record John Primer & Friends' Tribute to Theresa's Lounge. This film captures their personal memories of one of the most important blues clubs in history. These aren't stories from historians—they're told by the people who lived them.

If you appreciate John, Chicago blues, and the history behind this incredible music, I know you'll really enjoy this film.

🎬 Watch the trailer and reserve your streaming ticket here:

https://theresaslounge.com/Tickets

Once you purchase a ticket, you will be able to watch the documentary all weekend long. Tickets are only $14.95 each. Get your ticket today!

Thank you for supporting John, his music, the blues community, and the musicians who have kept this music alive for generations. Every ticket helps preserve these remarkable stories for future audiences.

We hope you'll join us this weekend for this online film premiere!

Thank you,

Lisa B. Primer, Manager
Blues House Productions
Executive Producer
The Basement That Built the Blues: A Tribute to Theresa's Lounge
BluesHouseProductions.com

Thank you to Paul Doppelt, a true Chicago blues superfan, for sponsoring this promotion.

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Mojo Ike & Val Bring the Blues "On the Rocks" to TOEJAM BACKLOT in Miami's Wynwood District, Saturday, July 18, 2026

It's Always a Party When Ike & Val

Rock the Blues, On the Rocks!

Saturday, July 18, 2026 | 7p Show | Midnite Open Mic

TOEJAM BACKLOT

Wynwood Arts District

150 NW 21st Street 

Miami, FL 33127

MAP | WEBSITE | (305)759-9277

ADVANCE TICKETS

South Florida blues fans will recognize Mojo Ike & Val as one of the region's longtime blues favorites, carrying forward the electric blues traditions that have been part of Miami's music scene for decades. Fronted by guitarist and vocalist Mojo Ike, the band combines Chicago, Texas, Delta, and classic blues influences with the energy of a seasoned live act. This performance also serves as Mojo Ike's annual birthday bash with friends, special guests, and an open jam, making it one of the band's most anticipated gatherings of the year. Their performances draw from the rich musical heritage that has shaped South Florida, where generations of local musicians have kept blues thriving in clubs, festivals, and neighborhood venues. Joining Mojo Ike & Val for this performance is veteran bassist Jimmy Lee Moore, adding another familiar name from the South Florida music community.

Located in the heart of Miami's arts district, ToeJam Backlot has built a reputation as one of the city's distinctive independent live music venues. The indoor-outdoor space regularly presents local, regional, and touring artists representing blues, rock, Americana, funk, jazz, roots music, and more in an informal setting that encourages audiences to get close to the performers. In addition to live concerts, the venue hosts community events, open jams, and creative gatherings, making it a regular destination for both musicians and music fans throughout South Florida.

Miami's internationally recognized Wynwood Arts District is Miami’s creative and cultural hub, famed as one of the world's largest open-air street-art installations. Once an industrial warehouse and garment district, the area transformed into a bustling neighborhood filled with colorful murals, over 70 galleries, craft breweries, trendy boutiques, and vibrant nightlife.

CONNECT WITH TOEJAM!

INSTAGRAM

FACEBOOK

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Copeland Davis Brings His Acclaimed Piano Style to GLAZER HALL Summer Jazz Series July 22, 2026

Blending jazz, blues, gospel,

and classical influences.

Wednesday, July 22, 2026 | 7p

Copeland Davis Ensemble
at

Glazer Hall

70 Royal Poinciana Way

Palm Beach, FL 33480

MAP | WEBSITE

TICKETS & INFO

Guests 21+ enjoy a complimentary wine tasting courtesy of Virginia Philip Wine Spirits & Academy!

GLAZER HALL's Summer Jazz Series, presented in partnership with the Palm Beach International Jazz Festival, welcomes acclaimed pianist Copeland Davis, whose electrifying performances and engaging stage presence have earned him recognition as one of America's leading jazz piano innovators.

A Florida Atlantic University graduate, Davis blends gospel roots, classical training, and jazz improvisation into a distinctive style that also embraces pop and rock influences. His career has included appearances on The Tonight Show, Good Morning, America, PBS, and ABC's B.L. Stryker, along with induction into the Las Vegas Entertainers Hall of Fame and The International Who's Who in Music. He has shared the stage with artists including Ramsey Lewis, Herbie Mann, and Aretha Franklin.

Known for combining exceptional technical skill with imaginative improvisation, Davis continues to captivate audiences with performances that showcase both virtuosity and musical versatility.

Personnel:

Copeland Davis – Piano, Val Shaffer – Contrabass, Mario La Casse – Guitar, Bill Alexander – Drums, Ben Sparrow – Saxophone, Ransom Miller – Trumpet.

TICKETS & INFO

Upcoming Summer Jazz Series Performance

Wednesday, August 5, 2026 | 7p
Troy Anderson and the Wonderful World Band – A Tribute to Louis Armstrong
Celebrating the 125th birthday of Louis Armstrong.
TICKETS & INFO

CONNECT WITH GLAZER HALL
WEBSITE
FACEBOOK
INSTAGRAM

Palm Beach Visitor Information

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Jazz & Blues Florida Distribution Quick Report As of July 15, 2026 - 58,000 Connections to the Scene

JAZZ & BLUES FLORIDA
Quick Report
July 15, 2026

This report provides a concise overview of Jazz & Blues Florida promotional distribution.

Since 2006, Jazz & Blues Florida has connected artists, venues, festivals, presenters, and music fans through a statewide promotional platform dedicated to live jazz and blues.

Today, Jazz & Blues Florida reaches one of Florida's largest dedicated audiences for live jazz and blues and provides a unique statewide promotional service not currently matched elsewhere in Florida.

Current Distribution Reach

• 4,014 Email Subscribers

• 54,151 Social Media Followers, Connections, and Group Members*

Jazz & Blues Florida distributes event information through Email News Distribution, News Blog Publication, Website Listings, Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, YouTube, Pinterest, and BlueSky.

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Attribution Reporting

Jazz & Blues Florida provides tracking-enabled links to support accurate source attribution. Access to performance data, including clicks, traffic, and ticket sales, depends on the client's analytics and ticketing platform configuration.

Accessing JBF Services:
https://www.jazzbluesflorida.com/rate-sheet

More About JBF:
https://www.jazzbluesflorida.com/jbf-about

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Footnotes

*Social Media Followers, Connections, and Group Members include Facebook Profile (7,744), Facebook Page (11,066), Instagram (4,744), LinkedIn (3,800), YouTube (1,388), BlueSky (99), South Florida Live Music & Entertainment Source (12,625), Jacksonville Musicians Official Group (4,647), Blues News & New Blues (4,146), and Best Blues Group (3,892).

This report is designed to provide a clear, high-level overview of Jazz & Blues Florida's promotional reach and distribution. The scale of these metrics reflects targeted audience access that typically exceeds what individual artists or venues maintain independently, particularly within this niche jazz and blues market. More detailed performance data or campaign-specific insights are available upon request on a per-client basis.

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Florida Bandmasters Association Opens New Jazz Institute at Summer Conference — Keynoted Wycliffe Gordon

The Florida Bandmasters Association (FBA) welcomed band directors from across the state to Orlando for its annual Summer Conference, held July 7–10, 2026 at the DoubleTree by Hilton Orlando Theme Park Resort. This year's conference introduced a new addition for jazz educators: the FBA Jazz Institute, opened with a keynote address from renowned jazz trombonist Wycliffe Gordon.

Gordon is widely regarded as one of the most versatile and celebrated jazz trombonists touring today, known for his signature sound and mastery of the plunger mute. His honors include the Louie Award, the International Trombone Award, the Satchmo Award, and the Louis Armstrong Memorial Prize from the Swing Jazz Culture Foundation, along with a past ASCAP Foundation Vanguard Award. A former member of the Wynton Marsalis Septet and the Lincoln Center Jazz Orchestra, Gordon has recently performed at venues including Birdland, the Rochester Jazz Festival, and Vail Jazz.

The addition of a dedicated Jazz Institute reflects a growing emphasis on jazz education within Florida's broader band programs, giving educators new tools and resources to bring back to their own jazz ensembles and students statewide.

Jazz & Blues Florida applauds the Florida Bandmasters Association for expanding its commitment to jazz education and for bringing artists of Wycliffe Gordon's caliber directly into the professional development of Florida's music educators.

Source: Florida Bandmasters Association, fba.flmusiced.org

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Jacksonville's Douglas Anderson School of the Arts Jazz Combo Named 2026 National DownBeat Award Winners

Douglas Anderson School of the Arts Jazz Combo

Douglas Anderson School of the Arts in Jacksonville, FL, has once again put Jacksonville on the national jazz education map. The school's Jazz Combo has been named DownBeat Magazine's 2026 "Small Jazz Combo – Performing Arts School" national winner, marking the first time this ensemble has claimed this specific national title in the program's history.

Saxophonist Spencer Carnochan added to the school's big year, earning an "Outstanding Soloist" honor from the prestigious DownBeat Student Music Awards. The award-winning combo also includes Erik Links on trumpet, Ean Bricknell on trombone, Isaiah Newland on drums, Graham Guiler on bass, and Rory Ames on piano.

For more than two decades, Douglas Anderson's jazz program has consistently earned national recognition through the DownBeat Student Music Awards — one of the most respected honors in jazz education. This year's Small Jazz Combo title is a new milestone in that long run of achievement, showcasing the depth of talent nurtured in Jacksonville's own backyard.

The school's jazz legacy runs deep. Grammy-winning drummer Ulysses Owens Jr. got his start as a member of Douglas Anderson's very first jazz program before going on to study at Juilliard and build an internationally acclaimed career — a reminder of the caliber of musician this program continues to produce.

*Read the full story: https://residentnews.net/award-winning-rhythm/ 

Jazz & Blues Florida is proud to spotlight the educators, students, and programs building the next generation of Florida jazz musicians. Know of a Florida jazz education story we should feature? Reach out to Jazz & Blues Florida to be included in future PSA coverage.*

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The Timeless Music of George Gershwin Performed by Zach Bartholomew at The Moss Center July 18, 2026

*LOW TICKET ALERT*

Only 9 tix avail as of 7/13/26 - on the way to selling out!

An intimate tribute to music

legend George Gershwin

Saturday, July 18, 2026 | 7:30pm

ZACH BARTHOLOMEW

The Music of George Gershwin

at the

DENNIS C. MOSS

CULTURAL ARTS CENTER

Black Box Theater

10950 SW 211th Street

Cutler Bay, FL 33189

MAP

WEBSITE  (786)573-5300

TICKETS

This captivating performance is led by award-winning pianist Dr. Zach Bartholomew and features the stunning vocals of Nicole Bartholomew, whose expressive interpretations bring Gershwin’s lyrics and melodies vividly to life.  The program features well-known compositions such as “I Got Rhythm,” “Summertime,” “Embraceable You” and “Someone to Watch Over Me,” presented through arrangements that incorporate improvisation and modern phrasing.

The Dennis C. Moss Cultural Arts Center is managed by the Miami-Dade County  Department of Cultural Affairs, with funding support from the Office of the Miami-Dade County Mayor and Board of County Commissioners.  The Center is dedicated to presenting and supporting 

arts and culture and providing access to the arts to the entire Miami-Dade County community.

           

It is the policy of Miami-Dade County to comply with all of the requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act.  The facility is accessible and assistive listening devices are available in the Main Stage Auditorium and the Black Box Theater space. To request materials in accessible format, and/or any accommodation to attend an event at the South Miami-Dade Cultural Arts Center, please contact Stephanie Aponte, 786-573-5314, saponte@miamidade.gov, at least five days in advance to initiate your request. TTY

 users may also call 711 (Florida Relay Service).

#JazzBluesFlorida  #TheMossCenter #CutlerBay #MiamiJazz  #LiveJazz #JazzConcert #JazzMusic #JazzInMiami 

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Central Florida Jazz Society Scholarship Winner Showcase Highlights Florida's Next Generation of Jazz Musicians

 Central Florida Jazz Society Scholarships -

Supporting the Future of Live Jazz

The Central Florida Jazz Society will present its 2026 Scholarship Winner Showcase on Sunday, July 26, 2026, from 3:00 to 5:00 p.m. at Blue Bamboo Center for the Arts in Winter Park.

The annual showcase celebrates recipients of the organization's scholarship program by providing an opportunity for these outstanding young musicians to perform before the public. Featured performers include Daniel Bonnet, Matthew Chacon, Tanner Goulet, Kenneth Orr, Andrew Yuska, and Greg Zabel.

Programs such as the Central Florida Jazz Society Scholarship Competition play an important role in encouraging and supporting Florida's emerging jazz artists while helping develop the next generation of performers, educators, and advocates for the music.

Jazz & Blues Florida applauds the Central Florida Jazz Society for its continuing commitment to jazz education and to providing meaningful performance opportunities for talented student musicians.

Event Information

Scholarship Winner Showcase
Sunday, July 26, 2026
3:00–5:00 p.m.

Blue Bamboo Center for the Arts
460 E. New England Avenue
Winter Park, FL 32789  MAP

Tickets and additional information are available at:
https://centralfloridajazzsociety.com/schedule/scholarship-winner-showcase

Jazz & Blues Florida Education & Community PSA

Source: Central Florida Jazz Society

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