Jazz Foundation of America Presents
“A Great Night” Gala

THURSDAY, MAY 21, 2026

Jazz Foundation of America
presents
“A GREAT NIGHT” GALA

Jazz at Lincoln Center
New York City, New York
WEBSITE

The Jazz Foundation of America will present its annual “A Great Night” Gala on Thursday, May 21, 2026, at Jazz at Lincoln Center in New York City. The evening raises awareness and financial support for the organization’s work assisting musicians and their families during times of hardship and crisis.

The Jazz Foundation of America provides assistance including housing support, disaster relief, medical care, employment opportunities, emergency financial assistance, and community music programs for musicians in need.

The 2026 Dr. Billy Taylor Humanitarian Award will be presented to 10-time Grammy Award winner Norah Jones.

Featured performances scheduled for the evening include a centennial tribute to Miles Davis featuring Gary Bartz and Patrice Rushen; Buster Williams’ Something More with Lenny White; a tribute to legendary Jamaican guitarist Ernest Ranglin featuring 17-year-old guitarist Marel Hidalgo; and a Verve Records 70th anniversary tribute celebrating the music of Cal Tjader and Willie Bobo featuring Juan Diego Villalobos and Florida-connected percussionist Sammy Figueroa.

Additional performers scheduled to appear include Clifton Anderson, Mike Camacho, George Colligan, Monte Croft, James Genus, Mike Griot, Winard Harper, Stefon Harris, Jimmy Owens, Ana Petrova, Antoine Roney, Pablito Rosario, Leonieke Scheuble, Marcos Torres, and Steve Wilson.

The evening will be hosted by Mark Ruffin with special guest Ann Curry. Musical direction will be provided by Steve Jordan.

TICKETS ON SALE

$500 / $1,000 VIP TICKETS
(Concert + VIP After-Party)

Click Here To Purchase VIP Tickets

$100 / $250 CONCERT TICKETS
(Concert-Only Tickets)

Concert-only tickets ($100-$250) are available online through the Jazz at Lincoln Center box office or directly through the Jazz at Lincoln Center box office located at Broadway and 60th Street in New York City.

Click Here To Purchase Concert-Only Tickets

Those unable to attend the gala but wishing to support the Jazz Foundation of America’s programs may make a contribution to assist the organization’s ongoing efforts supporting musicians and their families.

Donate Now