#United States #Northridge #Jazz Festival #Gerald Clayton #Duke Ellington

Celebrating Jazz: The Fifth Annual Jazz at Naz Festival

The Jazz at Naz festival is set to kick off its fifth annual event at The Soraya, California State University, Northridge, on January 31, 2026. This year promises to be a remarkable celebration of jazz, spearheaded by the internationally recognized musical director Gerald Clayton, a GRAMMY® nominee. The opening performance, titled "Sacredness," is a tribute to Duke Ellington's legendary Concerts of Sacred Music, highlighting both music and dance.

Outstanding Performers and Collaborations

Joining Clayton on stage will be the acclaimed choral ensemble Tonality, alongside vocalists Michael Mayo and Christie Dashiell, and the mesmerizing dancer and choreographer Josette Wiggan. As the cast prepares to deliver a powerful performance, they will also find out whether they clinched a GRAMMY award in their respective categories just a day later.

Clayton has shared his admiration for Ellington's work, stating, “Ellington's Concerts of Sacred Music have inspired me for many years, and I have been seeking the right opportunity and the ideal artist to lead this important work.” He believes that this festival is more than just a performance; it's a chance to innovate while paying homage to a musical legend.

A Renowned Jazz Destination

Over the years, Jazz at Naz has emerged as a key event within the jazz community, renowned for featuring both emerging talents and established legends. Major artists such as two-time GRAMMY® winner Samara Joy, John Pizzarelli, Branford Marsalis, Dianne Reeves, and Chucho Valdés have graced this festival, solidifying its reputation as a premier winter jazz festival on the West Coast. DownBeat Magazine has recognized The Soraya as one of the leading jazz venues globally, making it a must-visit destination for art lovers and jazz enthusiasts alike.

Festival Schedule and More

Running from January 31 to February 21, this year’s festival promises an exciting lineup of performers. Highlights in the Great Hall will include:

• - Gerald Clayton and the cast of Sacredness - January 31
• - Love Inside Out - Valentine's Day Concert with Veronica Swift - February 14
• - Preservation Hall Jazz Band - February 18
• - Alonzo King LINES Ballet - February 21

In addition, the Jazz Club will launch on February 5, introducing performances by the Arturo O'Farrill Trio and Cécile McLorin Salvant. The venue's unique layout offers various seating options, including table seating where the audience can pre-order dinner, adding a touch of intimacy to the concert experience.

Accessible Viewing Options

For those who cannot attend in person, the festival also provides livestream options with behind-the-scenes content, artist interviews, and full concerts available for $19.99 each or bundled at a discounted rate of $59.

A Commitment to the Arts

The Soraya, an award-winning venue that opened its doors in 2011 as the Valley Performing Arts Center, was renamed in 2017 in honor of a generous donation by Younes and Soraya Nazarian. In its twelfth year under the leadership of Executive and Artistic Director Thor Steingraber, The Soraya continues to uphold high standards of artistic excellence.

With a commitment to the performing arts and community-building, The Soraya remains a vital hub for cultural enrichment in the San Fernando Valley and beyond, catering to a diverse audience of 1.8 million residents. Its current 2025-26 season celebrates the broad spectrum of artistic expression, from orchestral music to avant-garde dance, showcasing various global artists.

Experience the vibrant world of jazz and community spirit at the Jazz at Naz festival, where artistry and culture unite to inspire all who attend.