Tilles Center to Present Third Annual Jazz Fest With Buena Vista Orchestra & More
The event will feature Ruby Laks, A Swinging Second-Line Parade - led by Hot Jazz All-Stars, including trumpeter Bria Skonberg and more.
Tilles Jazz Fest will return to the scenic and historic Long Island University campus in Brookville on Saturday, July 18, 2026, for a full day of world-class jazz, family-friendly programming, and vibrant community celebration across four stages, with gates opening at noon.
Presented in collaboration with Jazz at Lincoln Center, this third annual festival brings together legendary artists and rising stars in the jazz world. Complemented by top LIU student and alumni ensembles, the day will be an immersive indoor/outdoor experience, including food trucks and artisans, a free swing dance lesson and a second line parade during the day to headliner Buena Vista Orchestra performing in the evening Concert Hall show.
"This festival captures the spirit of jazz, where iconic voices and emerging artists share the stage," said Tom Dunn, Executive and Artistic Director of Tilles Center. "It's an energizing celebration of artistry, innovation, and community, set in a place that inspires creativity at every turn."
Tilles Jazz Fest is supported by a Market New York grant awarded through Empire State Development and I LOVE NY, New York State's Division of Tourism.
2026 JAZZ FEST ARTIST HIGHLIGHTS
• The Buena Vista Orchestra - Celebrating the legacy of Cuban music with world-class musicians from the Buena Vista Social Club tradition
• Bobby Sanabria Octet - Grammy-nominated percussionist blending Afro-Cuban jazz with big band flair
• Bluesy Beats and Jazzy Treats with Dan and Claudia Zanes - A lively, family-friendly set of jazz rhythms
• Ruby Laks - Emerging vocalist with a fresh, expressive voice in contemporary jazz
• A Swinging Second-Line Parade - led by Hot Jazz All-Stars, including trumpeter Bria Skonberg - all artists and audience invited to join!
More artists to be announced!
A FESTIVAL ROOTED IN LONG ISLAND UNIVERSITY
Tilles Jazz Fest will showcase LIU's vibrant arts community:
• LIU Jazz Combo (current LIU students) and Long Island Rising Stars (featuring LIU alumni and regional talent) will welcome guests at festival entrances from 12:15.
• Members of the LIU Marching Band will add energy to the festival's New Orleans-style Second Line parade, closing the daytime festivities at 5:45.
With performances spread across the Tilles Center Concert Hall, the Winnick House, and two scenic outdoor stages-the Great Lawn and University Arches-festivalgoers will experience music across the LIU campus.
FAMILY-FRIENDLY FUN & AFFORDABLE PRICING
From jazz lovers to families looking for a summer outing, there's something for everyone at Tilles Jazz Fest. Plus, children 12 and under can attend free. Guests are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and blankets for a day of relaxed listening and discovery.
The Swingin' Kidz Zone will feature:
· An Instrument Petting Zoo
· Crafts & Face Painting Festival-goers can also enjoy:
· Food Trucks including Sid's All-American, Mr. Flavors Ice Cream, Filthy Pig BBQ, Telia's, and Maui Wowi.
· Artisan vendors from around the community, such as Sweet Treats to the Rescue, Sweet Sparklies, Gordon Craftworks, among others.
· Additional concessions available, or bring your own picnic!
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