Pittsburgh International Jazz Festival Returns for 15th Year with Diverse Lineup and Free Performances

The August Wilson African American Cultural Center (AWAACC) will host the 15th annual Pittsburgh International Jazz Festival from September 18-21, 2025, presenting an eclectic mix of musical performances that span traditional jazz, neo soul, and contemporary interpretations. Headliners include renowned jazz artists Branford Marsalis and Dee Dee Bridgewater, alongside a diverse roster of performers such as Jazzmeia Horn, Keith David, and Kandace Springs. The festival will feature predominantly free performances along Liberty Avenue in downtown Pittsburgh, complemented by ticketed concerts at the AWAACC.

Janis Burley, President/CEO of AWAACC and the festival's founder, emphasized the event's commitment to introducing emerging artists and celebrating jazz legends. The festival aims to preserve jazz's historical integrity while supporting its ongoing evolution. This year's lineup represents an expansive musical landscape, featuring artists like Michael Mayo, Ekep Nkwelle Howard, and unique ensembles such as the all-woman group Be'La Dona and Etienne Charles' Creole Soul Ensemble. Local talent will also be highlighted, with Pittsburgh-based guitarist John Shannon and a special tribute to George Benson.

The festival offers additional experiences like THE JAZZ TRAIN™, a travel package in partnership with Amtrak that provides round-trip transportation from select East Coast cities, live music during transit, and festival admission. Supported by sponsors including Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield and the Mellon Foundation, the event underscores Pittsburgh's vibrant cultural scene and commitment to musical diversity. The festival's structure, with free public performances on Liberty Avenue, makes high-quality jazz accessible to a broad audience, reinforcing the art form's community roots.

By blending established names like Branford Marsalis with rising stars such as Jazzmeia Horn, the festival bridges generations of jazz artistry. The inclusion of neo-soul and contemporary interpretations alongside traditional jazz reflects the genre's dynamic nature and ongoing relevance. The emphasis on local performers, including a tribute to Pittsburgh native George Benson, strengthens regional cultural identity and provides a platform for homegrown talent. The partnership with Amtrak for THE JAZZ TRAIN™ expands the festival's reach beyond Pittsburgh, attracting visitors from across the East Coast and enhancing the city's profile as a cultural destination.

The sponsorship from organizations like the Mellon Foundation and Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield demonstrates significant institutional support for the arts in Pittsburgh. This backing ensures the festival's sustainability and allows for the presentation of a diverse, high-caliber lineup. The event's commitment to free performances aligns with broader goals of cultural equity and access, making jazz available to audiences regardless of economic background. As the festival marks its 15th anniversary, it continues to serve as a vital institution for preserving jazz heritage while fostering innovation, contributing to Pittsburgh's reputation as a city with a rich and evolving musical landscape.