Women in Jazz Festival

Inspired by Mary Lou Williams (1910-1981), Dr. Billy Taylor (1921-2010) founded the Women in Jazz Festival, held annually at the Kennedy Center in Washington, DC. "Mary Lou Williams" he explains "set a high standard for Jazz musicians. Composer, pianist, arranger, teacher, music historian, a role model and a humanitarian, she was the quintessential Jazz master. A sensitive, caring, self effacing performing artist, she shared her vast experience and musical skills with fellow artists."

Since 1996, some of Jazz music's most talented players have assembled for the two day event. From the eminent stateswoman of Jazz, Marian McPartland, to female artists who recently arrived on the scene, the Mary Lou Williams Women in Jazz Festival has set the tempo for encore events internationally.

Hosted by Dee Dee Bridgewater, the Mary Lou Williams Jazz Festival markes its 24th thrilling year with an evening of star-studded performances in the Kennedy Center's Terrace Theater featuring the world's top female Jazz artists. The Washington Post says the festival "speaks volumes about the contributions women have made to Jazz, and continue to make, both here and abroad."

Curated by percussionist & educator Terri Lyne Carrington, the 2019 annual Mary Lou Williams Women in Jazz Festival celebrated the music of prolific pianist and composer Geri Allen, with performances by bassist and NEA Jazz Master Dave Holland, tap dancer Maurice Chestnut, Kennedy Center Artistic Director for Jazz Jason Moran, the Renee Rosnes Quartet, NEA Jazz Master Joanne Brackeen and others. The 2020 program will be announced soon.

The 2020 Women in Jazz Festival was held May 8 & 9.