Opening Night 2026~ June 25th
“CELEBRATING 18 YEARS OF JAZZ ON THE GREEN“
2026 Schedule
6/25/2026
Rob Zinn
Veteran trumpeter, flugelhornist, and vocalist Rob Zinn has carved out a powerful niche in the contemporary jazz scene, bringing a fresh, groove-driven style to audiences worldwide. The acclaimed performer will open the 2026 Branford Jazz Series on June 25, performing behind Branford Town Hall starting at 6:00 p.m.
Since launching his solo career in 2016 with Yesterday Again, Rob has gained international recognition with three critically acclaimed albums, including Walk the Walk (2018) and his latest release, Anything Can Happen (2023), which was produced in part by Grammy-winning guitarist Paul Brown. Zinn is currently working on his next album, which will include the Billboard-charting single “Weekend Games,” featuring saxophonist Michael Paulo.
Rescheduled to 8/27/2026 from 7/2/2026 due to the extreme heat.
Greg Abate Quartet
Celebrated performer, recording artist, and educator Greg Abate brings decades of bebop excellence to the stage along with his quartet for the 2026 Branford Jazz Series on Thursday, August 27, from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m.
Abate, an acclaimed American jazz musician known for his work as a saxophonist, flautist, composer, and educator, continues to earn recognition as one of the most dynamic voices in contemporary jazz. Praised by critics as “one of the most exciting saxophone players” (The Washington Post) and “a superior bop player” (AllMusic), Abate has built a distinguished career rooted in the bebop and post-bop traditions.
7/9/2026
Jessy J
Celebrating a stellar career spanning more than 17 years, acclaimed contemporary jazz saxophonist Jessy J continues to reach new heights with a string of musical milestones that have solidified her place among the genre’s elite. With eight Billboard chart-topping albums, 13 hit singles, a strong global streaming presence, and sold-out international tours, Jessy J remains one of the most in-demand artists in contemporary jazz today.
As part of the 2026 Branford Jazz Series, Jessy J will take the stage on Thursday, July 9, at 6:00 p.m., performing live behind Branford Town Hall. This highly anticipated outdoor concert promises an evening of vibrant energy, world-class musicianship, and unforgettable jazz under the summer sky.
7/16/2026
Lindsey Webster
Lindsey Webster is a groundbreaking songwriter and performer whose music is defined by soulful depth and chart-topping success. Her journey shattered records when her debut single, “Fool Me Once,” became the only vocal song other than Sade to hit #1 on the Billboard charts in an instrumental format, holding the top spot for an unprecedented four weeks. This wasn’t a fluke; alongside longtime musical partner and producer, Keith Slattery, Lindsey has since landed an impressive thirteen songs in the Billboard Top 10. Now, they unveil their latest album, “Music In Me,” a masterful collection that bridges their foundational jazz roots with a deep, magnetic exploration of R&B. The album is a testament to Lindsey’s artistic evolution—her soaring voice and lyrical honesty blending seamlessly with a newfound soulful energy. “Music In Me” promises to not only entertain but also leave the lasting, positive impression that has become the hallmark of her pioneering artistry.
Known for his vibrant presence in the jazz harmonica world, Chris DePino blends technical mastery with soulful storytelling, delivering performances that resonate with audiences across genres and continents. He will be featured behind the Branford Town Green on Thursday, July 23, at 6:00 p.m.
Born in New Haven, Connecticut, DePino is a distinguished blues and jazz harmonica player, music educator, and session musician whose versatile career spans jazz, blues, and classical music. Raised in an Italian American family, his musical journey began with the accordion—a nod to his cultural roots—before he discovered his true passion: the harmonica.
7/30/2026
Kahlil Kwame Bell and The Gift
Using his artistry across jazz, rock, hip hop, European classical, world music, spirituals, and spoken word, Kahlil Kwame Bell is best known for his distinctive layering of sounds, instruments, and rhythms. On July 30, Bell will bring his original compositions to the 2026 Branford Jazz Concert Series behind Branford Town Hall beginning at 6:00 p.m., where his music can be experienced live by audiences in Connecticut and heard daily on jazz and world music radio programs worldwide.
Celebrated as a pioneer, Bell is a Grammy-affiliated percussionist, composer, arranger, and producer who has left an indelible mark on the global music scene. He is especially recognized for mastering the slapaphone and incorporating it into jazz, blending traditional percussion with innovation to expand the sonic possibilities of the genre.
8/6/2026
Sean Nelson Jazz Orchestra
The Sean Nelson Jazz Orchestra, described by Jazz Weekly as a “full-bodied and polished brassy big band,” is made up of 17 of the finest musicians in New England. This extraordinary ensemble will be featured in the 2026 Branford Jazz Series lineup on August 6, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. behind the Branford Town Green.
Formed in 2016 as the New London Big Band, the group has spent the past nine years performing monthly to sold-out crowds at Social Bar + Kitchen. Their performances have taken them across the country, including appearances at the Kennedy Center, Birdland Jazz Club, Monk’s Jazz Club, and Hallowed Halls.
8/13/2026
Phil Denny
Internationally recognized contemporary jazz saxophonist Phil Denny will bring his signature smooth and energetic sound to the 2026 Branford Jazz Concert Series on Thursday, August 13, at 6:00 p.m. The performance will take place behind Branford Town Hall as part of the community’s beloved summer music tradition.
A Billboard-charting artist with an impressive and rapidly growing résumé, Denny has become a household name in contemporary jazz. Known for his compelling stage presence, passionate performances, and genuine connection with audiences, he continues to captivate fans across the globe.
8/20/2026
SPECIAL EFX feat Chieli Minucci with special guest Lao Tizer
Guitarist, composer, producer, and arranger Chieli Minucci is the longtime leader of the Grammy-nominated jazz-fusion group Special EFX featuring Chieli Minucci, a major force on the jazz and world music scene for more than 40 years.
On Thursday, August 20, 2026, the award-winning group will bring the 2026 Branford Jazz Concert Series to an exciting close with a special performance from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. behind Branford Town Hall.
Chieli has just released his first full CD in three years, the long-awaited Special EFX featuring Chieli Minucci – THE HITS!. This ambitious project is comprised of 14 songs, including remastered favorites and chart-toppers from the band’s multi-decade career, as well as brand-new songs and a few surprises.
