Festival Curated By Stanley Clarke Brings Global Jazz Greats to Santa Monica

SANTA MONICA, CA — March 3, 2026 — A bold new chapter in Southern California’s live music scene begins this May as the Santa Monica International Jazz Festival launches its inaugural edition from May 1–9, 2026. Spearheaded by SM Festivals in partnership with the City of Santa Monica, the nine-day celebration promises world-class performances, emerging talent, and a dynamic tribute to jazz’s enduring legacy.

Headlining the festival’s grand finale on May 9 at Tongva Park is two-time 2026 Grammy winner Kamasi Washington, whose expansive sound has redefined modern jazz for a new generation. The festival is curated by legendary bassist and composer Stanley Clarke, who also performs during the closing night celebration.

A Landmark Finale at Tongva Park

The festival culminates in “A Day in the Park” on Saturday, May 9, marking the first full-scale concert event held at Santa Monica’s scenic Tongva Park. Set against the Pacific coastline, the event aims to establish Santa Monica as an international jazz destination.

Kamasi Washington expressed his enthusiasm for the festival’s debut:

“Los Angeles! I’m excited to join one of my musical heroes and incredible artist Stanley Clarke for his inaugural Santa Monica International Jazz Festival this May. Come hear incredible music at the beautiful festival site in Tongva Park!”

Washington’s appearance comes after a banner year, including two Grammy wins, further cementing his role as a global ambassador of contemporary jazz.

Stanley Clarke & Friends: A Historic Collaboration

Artistic Director Stanley Clarke will take the stage with Stanley Clarke & Friends, an all-star ensemble assembled exclusively for the festival. Among the featured artists is iconic drummer and composer Stewart Copeland, co-founder of the legendary rock band The Police.

This special collaboration marks the first time in several years that Clarke and Copeland will perform together. Their one-night-only set will honor jazz titans Miles Davis and John Coltrane, as 2026 commemorates the centennial of both artists’ births. The tribute will also feature imaginative reinterpretations of classic Police songs, blending jazz improvisation with rock sensibilities.

Clarke shared his vision:

“I’ve performed at the finest jazz festivals around the world, and I can’t think of a locale to stage an annual international jazz festival comparable to Santa Monica, California. I’m excited about the extraordinary lineup of major global jazz artists we have set to perform as well as some new young jazz musicians.”

Copeland added:

“Stanley Clarke and I first trod the boards together in 1981 and have lit each other up at every opportunity since then. My daddy guided and raised me to be a jazz musician — all in preparation to play with such a giant.”

Miles Electric Band and More Headline Performances

Also featured during the May 9 finale is the Miles Electric Band (M.E.B.), led by Vince Wilburn, Jr., nephew of Miles Davis. Their performance will celebrate Davis’ electrifying legacy and genre-defying innovations.

Los Angeles-based electronic jazz-funk duo KNOWER will deliver a full-band live set, adding a contemporary edge to the festival’s diverse programming.

Clarke & Friends will also feature acclaimed artists including keyboardist Kiefer and trumpeter Keyon Harrold, creating a cross-generational dialogue that reflects the festival’s mission.

Honoring John Coltrane at BroadStage

On Friday, May 8, the festival turns its focus to John Coltrane with a powerful tribute concert at BroadStage.

The evening features performances by celebrated saxophonists Lakecia Benjamin and Isaiah Collier, along with the ensemble Tenor Madness. Their interpretations will honor Coltrane’s spiritual depth and groundbreaking artistry.

BroadStage Executive and Artistic Director Rob Bailis emphasized the importance of the collaboration:

“This has been the opportunity of a lifetime working alongside Stanley Clarke over the last three years developing this incredible new festival from the ground up. It celebrates Stanley’s signature artistic vision, blending generations and styles in a totally inspired, future-facing fashion.”

Pre-Festival Spotlight: Hiromi’s Sonicwonder

The festival’s programming begins even before its official kickoff. On Friday, May 1, internationally acclaimed pianist Hiromi Uehara brings her electrifying project Hiromi’s Sonicwonder to the historic Orpheum Theatre in downtown Los Angeles.

Known for her virtuosic technique and genre-blending compositions, Hiromi sets the tone for a week of boundary-pushing performances.

Free Community Celebration on Third Street Promenade

In keeping with its mission to nurture emerging talent and community engagement, the festival officially launches on Sunday, May 3, with “Sunday on the Promenade,” a free, public event at the Third Street Promenade.

The all-day showcase highlights rising Los Angeles-based musicians and student ensembles poised for professional careers. Featured performers include Elijah Fox, Genevieve Artadi, Meg Duffy (Hand Habits) & Greg Uhlmann, Instant Alter, Billy Mohler, Varad Sahasrabudhe, Aidan Farrell, and the Samohi Jazz Combo.

This free event underscores the festival’s commitment to accessibility and artistic development.

Building a World-Class Jazz Destination

Produced by SM Festivals, LLC — led by Stanley Clarke and veteran concert producer Martin Fleischmann — the Santa Monica International Jazz Festival aims to rival the great jazz gatherings of Europe and the United States.

Clarke’s decorated career spans more than five decades, including four Grammy Awards, designation as an NEA Jazz Master, and recognition as Rolling Stone’s first-ever Jazzman of the Year. Fleischmann brings extensive experience producing major concerts and festivals across Southern California, including events at the Hollywood Bowl and Santa Monica Pier.

Together, their leadership seeks to position Santa Monica as a premier cultural destination that blends music, tourism, and community.

Sponsors and Community Support

The festival enjoys broad support from civic and corporate partners, including the City of Santa Monica, Telacu Industries, Concord Records, Fairmont Hotel, Santa Monica Travel & Tourism, Downtown Santa Monica, and Chez Jay. Media sponsorship is provided by KJazz 88.1 FM.

About BroadStage

BroadStage is a contemporary performing arts presenter based in Santa Monica. Founded in 2008 in partnership with Santa Monica College, the organization presents bold performances, immersive artistic experiences, and educational initiatives designed to expand the role of the arts in community life. Its primary venue is the Santa Monica College Performing Arts Center.

Under the leadership of Rob Bailis, BroadStage continues to broaden its artistic vision and deepen its community impact.

Tickets and Additional Information

Tickets for the Santa Monica International Jazz Festival are available now through Ticketmaster. VIP packages offer premium seating, artist meet-and-greet opportunities, priority entry, and exclusive experiences.

With additional artists and special events still to be announced, the inaugural Santa Monica International Jazz Festival promises not only a celebration of jazz history but a bold vision for its future — blending legendary icons, rising stars, and the vibrant spirit of coastal California into what organizers hope will become an annual international tradition.

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