05/31/2026
Blue Jay Jazz Festival 2026
The magical three day Blue Jay Jazz Festival is coming August 27-29 featuring world-class jazz artists and several amazing local artists. Lake Arrowhead is home to large number of remarkable jazz performers that work in the “other L.A.”jazz scene (Los Angeles), so stay tuned, there will be a lot of exciting news on these artists in the weeks to come. Tickets on sale now, visit www.bluejayjazz.org.
The Festival begins Thursday, August 27, with critically acclaimed guitarist Carl Verheyen and his band. A member of the British rock group Supertramp since 1985, Carl has played for millions of fans worldwide. Opening for Verheyen will be 6 Beats Apart lead by local artist Bruce Lett. The members of 6 Beats Apart have played with such greats as Doobie Brothers, Boy George, Elton John, Ernie Watts, Freddie Hubbard, Red Garland, and jazz vocalist Diane Schuur. Thursday evening will also include a presentation by the Foundation to their 2026 Future Generation Jazz Scholars and is sure to be a night to remember.
Friday, August 28, concert opens “Ambassador of Soul” Ellis Hall, known for his five-octave range and deep love of performing from his years with Tower of Power, Sheila E., Herbie Hancock, James Taylor, Patti Labelle, and Toby Keith. Ellis shares that night with Tierra Legacy, the show-stopping, eye popping, legendary Latin R&B band led by local artist David Salas, son of the band’s founder, Rudy Salas. Founded in 1972, Tierra is the first Latino group to have four songs on the national charts at the same time. Family members and longtime collaborators honor the band’s heritage and keep it spicy.
Saturday, August 29, the Jazz Salon All Stars return with singer Niki Haris and a fresh take on the Great American Songbook. Niki spent 18 years appearing alongside Madonna and greats like the Jazz Crusaders and Joe Sample. The All Stars have become mountain favorites for their musical mastery, having played with Duke Ellington, Ray Charles, Michael Buble´, and John Legend, and includes local Hollywood writer /director, Judd Pillot on drums.
Opening Saturday will be The Digital Audio Projekt showcasing local artists André Berry, Bruce Rubio and Harold Allen, Jr. One of the busiest sidemen in the business these days is bassist André Berry. He has toured with Dave Koz, Rick Braun and Mindi Abair and continues to be one of the most sought after bass players in the industry.
Professional saxophonist and long-time Lake Arrowhead resident, Bruce Rubio has an impressive list of stints with top professional jazz bands, rock bands, and tribute bands. New Orleans born drummer, Harold Allen Jr. has performed with various artists including The Brothers Johnson, Jermaine Jackson, Ivan Neville, Leo Nocentelli, Percy Sledge, Jean Knight, Harmonica Fats, Michael Haggins and many others.
