03/10/2025
Who doesn't love some "free time"?...
Beat feet up to Town of Duck next week for the Duck Jazz Festival!:
Duck Jazz Festival is turning up the energy to mark its 16th anniversary, with the exciting theme: “Duck Grooves: The Sound of Jazz”. Get ready for a fusion of classic jazz roots and bold new sounds, as the festival brings together timeless jazz traditions and cutting-edge rhythms in an unforgettable two-day musical journey. Set along the serene Currituck Sound, this is where the past meets the present in one electrifying celebration of jazz’s rich, evolving legacy.
Various jazz-themed community events are planned leading up to the festival beginning on Thursday, October 10 with Jazzy Yoga 8:00 a.m. on the Town Green located at 1200 Duck Road. This class will be offered in- person and virtually. We’re excited to bring back this experience that combines the rhythm of jazz with the serenity of yoga. Join us for this free outdoor class where every pose is inspired by the soulful sounds of jazz music. All levels are welcome- come find your groove on the mat.
On Thursday evening at 6:00 P.M., Dr. Kelsey Klotz, Assistant Professor of Musicology at the University of Maryland, will lead an educational lecture titled “Voices and Virtuosos: The History of Women in Jazz” in the Paul F. Keller Meeting Hall. This thought-provoking session will explore the revolutionary contributions and impact women have had on shaping the jazz genre. Dr. Klotz will take the audience on a journey through time, examining the pivotal roles women have played in shaping jazz music from the trailblazing voices of early jazz to the modern-day virtuosos pushing creative boundaries.
Friday, October 10 continues the pre-festival excitement with a Jazzy-Duck Sweep at 8:00 a.m., inviting festivalgoers to help keep our community beautiful with a fun, eco-friendly litter cleanup. Ascension Music Academy joins us at 10:00 a.m. in the Paul F. Keller Meeting Hall for a jazz-themed story time and rhythm play for pre-school aged children called “Everybody Wants to be a Cat.” Thanks to support from Carolina Designs Realty, the Movie on the Green returns on Friday at sunset with the movie Sing! playing on the Town Green.
The festival weekend kicks off on Saturday, October 11 from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. with Adam Hawley performing on the Main Stage of the Town Green. A celebrated guitarist, producer, and composer, Adam Hawley has taken the jazz world by storm with over 17 Billboard hits and a resume that includes performances with Jennifer Lopez, Natalie Cole, Lalah Hathaway, and more! Following the Concert on the Green, festivalgoers are invited to attend a live jam held at The Blue Point (1240 Duck Road) where attendees can mingle with performers and enjoy musical improvisation.
Sunday, October 12, brings a full day of jazz to the Duck Town Park with performances alternating between the Main Stage and Amphitheater Stage. Shayna Steele will begin the day on the Main Stage at 11:00 a.m. with her powerhouse vocals and seamless blend of soul, jazz, and blues in a performance sure to bring the energy.
At 1:15 p.m., we are thrilled to welcome back festival alum Gerald Veasley to the Duck Jazz Festival Main Stage! A true icon of contemporary jazz, Veasley is known for his genre-defying artistry as a bassist, composer, bandleader, and educator. His dynamic performances blend jazz, soul, gospel, and funk, showcasing a rich musicality that has earned him collaborations with legends like Kirk Whalum, McCoy Tyner, and The Jaco Pastorius Big Band. His latest release, Live at SOUTH, captures the spontaneity and soul of his live shows, featuring standout moments with a world-class band.
Back by popular demand, Brass Queens return to the Duck Jazz Festival after their unforgettable 2023 debut lit up the amphitheater with high-energy, crowd-engaging performance magic. This electrifying, all-female brass band from New York City is shaking up the brass band scene with a bold, genre-blending sound that honors New Orleans traditions while pulsing with NYC’s signature edge. In a space historically dominated by men, Brass Queens are proudly redefining the narrative, showcasing top-tier musicianship, infectious joy, and undeniable stage presence. Catch their much-anticipated Main Stage performance at 3:25 p.m. on the Main Stage and experience the excitement that only Brass Queens can deliver.
To wrap up the day, get ready for an unforgettable finale at 5:25 p.m. as Tito Puente Jr., the son of Latin jazz legend Tito Puente, takes the stage with a modern twist on his father’s iconic mambo sound. Puente brings his father’s iconic legacy to life with a modern twist, delivering high-energy performances that blend the timeless sound of mambo with contemporary Latin jazz flair. Known for lighting up stages around the world, Tito Puente Jr. keeps audiences on their feet with his infectious spirit and dynamic showmanship, bringing the spirit of Latin jazz to life and making for a memorable end to the festival!
The Amphitheater Stage will also feature a lineup of remarkable talent and noteworthy performances. Led by GRAMMY-recognized pianist and educator Dr. David L. Esleck, the David Esleck Trio offers a fresh, masterful take on jazz. Joined by award-winning bassist Joe Sarver and multi-instrumentalist Keith Willingham, the trio will feature special guest Jordan Garrett, an expressive vocalist, pianist, and educator whose dynamic style lights up the stage. Also featured on the Amphitheater Stage is festival alumnus The Hot Lanes with Bobby Jasinski! This high-energy 16-piece big band, led by award-winning composer and pianist Bobby Jasinski, wowed audiences in 2023 and returns with even more passion and flair. Blending Latin rhythms, classical touches, and jazz traditions, The Hot Lanes deliver a bold, global sound inspired by legends like Count Basie. Don’t miss this dynamic performance packed with rich textures and standout solos.
The First Flight High School Honors Jazz Band will also take the stage, showcasing the incredible young talent in our community. This year is especially exciting as it marks the first performance under the direction of the new band director, David Lee! We are thrilled to welcome him and his ensemble to the stage for a high-energy performance that’s sure to impress.
As part of the festival’s outreach, Monday, October 13, brings the annual jazz workshop for First Flight High School students, sponsored by Outer Banks Media. Led by Tito Puente Jr. and his bandmates, the workshop offers local students a unique opportunity to learn from the best and grow as young musicians.
The full schedule of activities, all festival information, volunteer opportunities, and town-wide events can be found at www.duckjazz.com.
Send a message to learn more
