Music has the power to inspire, connect, and transform, and we believe it should be accessible to everyone. The Boston Jazz Foundation is a 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to uplifting local artists and fostering community through the vibrant art of jazz. We create opportunities for artists and audiences alike by offering free and affordable world-class programming, paid performance opportunities, and educational initiatives that nurture the next generation of musicians.
Upcoming Shows & Events
Presented by Fenway Forward, New England Jazz Connections, and the Boston Jazz Foundation - at the Newcastle Saranac Community Studio, located at 607 Columbus Avenue in Roxbury, in the heart of Boston’s historic Jazz Square. Doors open at 6:00 PM, and the concert runs from 6:30–7:45 PM.
This concert features Francisco Mela, a Cuban-born jazz drummer, composer, and educator from Bayamo, Cuba. His artistic work is deeply rooted in Afro-Cuban musical traditions while engaging with contemporary jazz, avant-garde practices, and free improvisation. He will be joined by Tommy Liu, a Boston-based jazz guitarist that fuses the influences of free improvisations with contemporary jazz colors.
Since relocating to the United States in the 1990s, Mela has developed an international career, performing and recording with leading figures in modern jazz, including McCoy Tyner, Joe Lovano, Kenny Barron, Esperanza Spalding, Quincy Jones, William Parker, Paul Motian, George Garzone, and Cooper-Moore. His work has been presented at major concert halls, festivals, and academic institutions throughout the Americas, Europe, and Asia.
Join us for an evening of world-class music and community spirit as we launch the NSCS Jazz Concert Series!
Join the Boston Jazz Foundation for an unforgettable evening of live music, fine food, and a silent auction in support of the 6th Annual Charles River Jazz Festival, one of Boston’s most beloved summer music events.
Set in the elegant atmosphere of Rochambeau brasserie, this special night brings together artists, supporters, and friends for an intimate celebration of jazz and the vibrant community that surrounds it.
-
Enjoy a live performance by jazz pianist & vocalist Zahili Gonzalez Zamora
-
Savor delicious food and drinks at one of Boston’s most stylish restaurants
-
Bid on unique items and experiences in our silent auction
-
Connect with fellow supporters of the arts
All proceeds from the evening directly support the Charles River Jazz Festival, helping us keep the festival free and accessible to all, ensure fair pay for artists, and continue building a thriving jazz ecosystem in Greater Boston.
The Boston area jazz scene is growing, and we are grateful to all the members of our community for working together to continue to celebrate this important music! In particular, we are pleased that Boston Jazz Foundation, JazzBoston, and the Cambridge Jazz Foundation have agreed to collaborate on a number of projects. Please note that these three non-profit organizations are independent, with differing areas of focus, but all are working towards the mutual goal of support & advocacy of improvisational jazz, a music that originated in the African American community. You can help by donating to them individually at their respective websites. Thank you!