The Lionel Hampton Jazz Festival is right around the corner, happening on April 22-25 at the ICCU Arena. This long-awaited annual festival is one of the biggest events that the University of Idaho hosts, with many talented artists performing.
For tickets and schedule information, visit uitickets.com.
This year’s lineup features six artists or musical groups, ranging from Latin jazz to powerful vocals.
Tito Puente Jr.
Being the son of a Latin music legend, Puente Jr. brings high-energy performances and blends Latin jazz, mambo, salsa and merengue in his music. He was born in New York and is now based in Miami. Puente Jr. has released albums recognized by Billboard, such as “Guarachando” and “Sientelo.” He continues to play his music on stages around the world and dazzles crowds with his signature Latin jazz.
Summer Camargo
One of jazz’s brightest and talented rising stars, Summer Camargo is a trumpeter, composer and bandleader. She has been named one of DownBeat’s “25 for the Future,” and she has made waves from being in Saturday Night Live’s band to Broadway’s “Just in Time.” Summer Camargo is a Julliard alum and Conn Selmer/Bach artist and released her debut album, “To Whom I Love,” with Blue Engine Records in 2024. She has performed with Jazz and Lincoln Center, Jon Batiste and the Mingus Big Band.
Jazzmeia Horn
A Grammy-nominated vocalist, Jazzmeia Horn is known for having powerful vocals, fearless artistry and a deep connection to the traditions of jazz. Horn has a rich and diverse vocal range and a compelling stage presence. Being part of jazz’s new generation, she pushes boundaries while also honoring the past traditions of jazz. She was raised in Dallas, and her music is inspired by life’s ups and downs. She uses her emotions and experiences to create beautiful storytelling.
Warren Wolf
A powerful vibraphonist and multi-instrumentalist, Warren Wolf is known for his dazzling technique and large-scale reach. Wolf has toured all across the world, from New York to Tokyo, Paris to Singapore, and shared his vibrant music. He was born in Baltimore and is an important member of the SFJAZZ Collective and Christian McBride’s Inside Straight. Wolf is an educator at the Peabody of Music and the San Francisco Conservatory of Music. He has 10 recordings out, mostly with Mack Avenue Records, and he continues to push the boundaries of jazz with his music.
Something Else!
A powerhouse septet of soul jazz pioneers, Something Else! is led by alto sax legend Vincent Herring. The group features jazz heavyweights like Jeremy Pelt and Wayne Escoffery. Something Else! performs groovy, electrifying renditions of classic pieces from Horace Silver, Herbie Hancock and more. This group has deep roots in ‘50s and ‘60s soul jazz and the feel-good vibes of those eras.
Lionel Hampton Big Band
Co-led by previous Hampton band members, the Lionel Hampton Big Band is a classic group that performs at the Jazz Fest. They bring Hampton’s hard-swinging jazz to life with energetic performances of his most famous and classic hits. The band serves to continue Hampton’s legacy and honor jazz icons like Louis Armstrong and Benny Goodman.
For more updates and Jazz Fest news, you can follow the Jazz Fest team on their social media or contact them at [email protected] with any questions.
Brooklynn Jolley can be reached at [email protected]