DC JazzFest presents: DC JazzPrix Finals
The DC JazzFest presents the DC JazzPrix Finals at Union Stage on September 5, 2026, a free showcase bringing together four distinct jazz ensembles from across the country and abroad. The evening features a mix of pianists and bandleaders, with groups hailing from New Jersey, Louisiana, South Africa/New York, and Pennsylvania, each offering a different flavor of contemporary jazz. The event is part of the larger DC JazzFest programming and benefits from the support of several charitable foundations, underscoring its role as a platform for emerging and established jazz talent.
When: Saturday, September 5, 2026.
Venue: Union Stage, 740 Water Street SW, Washington, DC 20024.
Admission: Free, no ticket price listed.
Lineup: Luther S. Alison & Poiesis (Secaucus, NJ) — pianist Luther S. Alison leads trumpeter Brandon Woody, alto saxophonist Markus Howell, trombonist Jeffery Miller, bassist Jonathon Müir-Cotton, and drummer Joe Dyson. Amina Scott Quintet (New Orleans, LA) — bassist Amina Scott heads a band featuring pianist Oscar Rossignoli, trumpeter Steve Lands, tenor saxophonist Gladney, and drummer Peter Varnado. Bokani Dyer Trio (Johannesburg, South Africa / New York, NY) — pianist and vocalist Bokani Dyer is joined by bassist and vocalist Timothy Norton and drummer and vocalist Lumanyano Mzi. James Fernando Trio (Philadelphia, PA) — pianist James Fernando leads bassist Dan McCain and drummer Kyon Williams.
Program support: The 2026 DCJazzPrix program is made possible by major support from The Leonard and Elaine Silverstein Family Foundation and Venable Foundation. The DCJazzPrix award itself is supported by the Gillon Charitable Fund and the Galena-Yorktown Foundation.
Note: The performance is part of the DC JazzFest series and is presented at Union Stage, one of several venues participating in the festival's broader programming.