Alright, jazz cats and kittens, get ready to tap your toes and let your soul sway! The 19th Annual New Mexico Jazz Festival, presented by the Outpost Performance Space, is about to drop, bringing a month-long crescendo of improvisation, innovation, and jazz magic to Albuquerque, Santa Fe, and Taos.
From September 4 to 28, let yourself merge with a world of legendary jazz masters and rising stars laying down grooves that’ll move you from your head to your shoes.
About Outpost Performance Space
The Outpost Performance Space is a nonprofit organization and venue in Albuquerque dedicated to progressive music, visual arts, and community engagement since 1988. It offers a year-round schedule of concerts, workshops, and festivals featuring jazz, blues, folk, experimental and world music, alongside rotating visual art exhibitions at the Inpost Artspace gallery.
Education is central to its mission, with instrumental and vocal workshops, youth and adult jazz ensembles, and outreach programs nurturing new talent. Supported by volunteers, sponsors, and donors, Outpost serves as a cultural hub for the Southwest.
Memberships provide perks like discounted tickets and exclusive events. Key events include Summer Thursday Jazz Nights and the New Mexico Jazz Festival. For the latest updates, event schedules, and opportunities to support the arts, visit OutpostSpace.org.
2025 New Mexico Jazz Festival Featured Lineup
The 19th Annual New Mexico Jazz Festival showcases top-tier jazz, blues and Latin music talent alongside community events such as artist talks, films, art exhibits and more.
This year’s festival features several exciting free events open to the public, including Blues Night on Civic Plaza (September 13), the Inpost Artspace exhibition with poetry interludes by Larry Goodell (September 7), and a multi-day Jazz Film series at the Guild Cinema (September 9 – 11), celebrating the spirit of jazz across music, art, and film.
Take a peek at some of the world-renowned talent booked in for this year’s festival spotlight. All acts are subject to change.
Jazz Romp with Hillary Smith and Glenn Kostur 
September 4, Outpost Performance Space, Albuquerque
Vocalist Hillary Smith and saxophonist Glenn Kostur have collaborated as part of New Mexico’s jazz, soul, and blues scene for nearly 30 years, performing together in groups like Hip Pocket, Soul Kitchen, and the Albuquerque Jazz Orchestra. Their partnership is rooted in shared musical tastes and a deep commitment to community drawing inspiration from iconic jazz duos, such as Nancy Wilson and Cannonball Adderley.
Jimmy Bosch Salsa Masters
September 5, Albuquerque Museum Amphitheater
Trombonist, vocalist, and composer Jimmy Bosch is a celebrated leader of “Salsa Dura,” the energetic New York style of Afro-Caribbean music, known for captivating dancers and audiences worldwide. With a career spanning over 45 years, Bosch has worked with legends like Eddie Palmieri and Ruben Blades, contributed to 11 Grammy-winning albums, and released over 150 Latin music recordings. Backed by the Jimmy Bosch Salsa Masters sextet, his performances feature driving percussion, danceable trombone, and vibrant call-and-response vocals, hallmarks of true Salsa Dura.
Inpost Artspace reception: Works by Greg Tucker
September 7, Outpost Performance Space, Albuquerque
Greg Tucker is a multidisciplinary artist who merges music and visual arts, with a strong focus on blues and jazz. His work has been featured in major museum collections and renowned publications, including Psychology Today and Bloomberg. Poet Larry Goodell, founder of Duende Press, is celebrated for his performance poetry and recent book, Clouds – Poems 2020 to 2025.
Jazz Movies at the Guild Cinema
September 9-11, Guild Cinema, Albuquerque
The 19th Annual New Mexico Jazz Festival in September 2025 features an exciting special event: Jazz Movies at the Guild Cinema in Albuquerque on September 9-11. See special screenings of Ornette Coleman, Made in America and Thelonious Monk, Straight No Chaser. Presented by the Outpost Performance Space, in partnership with the Guild Cinema this film series offers jazz lovers a unique way to experience the festival through iconic jazz-themed cinema in a historic local venue. Check the Guild Theatre’s calendar for updates.
Claudia Villela-Vitor Gonçalves Duo
September 11, Outpost Performance Space, Albuquerque
Celebrated Brazilian artists Claudia Villela and Vitor Gonçalves reunite for an exhilarating performance that fuses samba, jazz, and global influences. Villela, known for her extraordinary five-octave voice and acclaimed albums like Cartas ao Vento, joins pianist and accordionist Gonçalves, a mainstay of both Rio de Janeiro’s and New York’s jazz scenes. Together, they deliver innovative, cross-genre music rooted in deep Brazilian tradition and creative collaboration.
Claudia Villela-Vitor Gonçalves Duo
September 12, Unit B by Chocolate Maven, Santa Fe
If you can’t make the Albuquerque show, Brazilian-born vocalist Claudia Villela and Vitor Gonçalves, the acclaimed pianist/accordionist, join forces in Santa Fe the following night, presenting the same electrifying blend of samba, jazz, and world music traditions.
Fred Frith Solo
September 12, Outpost Performance Space, Albuquerque
Multi-instrumentalist and composer Fred Frith is a pioneering figure in experimental music, known for his innovative work with the RIO band Henry Cow and collaborations with artists like Brian Eno, John Zorn, and Meredith Monk. Over a 50-year career, he has contributed to more than 400 albums and composed for film, dance, and theater, while performing with ensembles such as Art Bears and the Fred Frith Guitar Quartet. Honored with Italy’s Demetrio Stratos Prize and an honorary doctorate, Frith has also been a leading educator in experimental music, shaping future generations at Mills College and institutions worldwide.
Tawanda Sussbrich-Joaquim
September 13, Dave’s Jazz Bistro, Santa Fe
Jazz vocalist Tawanda Suessbrich-Joaquim, originally from Las Cruces, New Mexico, is acclaimed for her soulful interpretations and exquisite vocal artistry inspired by jazz greats like Billie Holiday and Ella Fitzgerald. After winning the Ninth Annual Sarah Vaughan International Jazz Vocal Competition in 2021 and releasing her praised debut album, Smile, Tawanda continues to enchant audiences worldwide with her timeless performances. Guests at Dave’s Jazz Bistro will also enjoy a specially curated dinner crafted by the talented chefs of the Santa Fe School of Cooking, making this an extraordinary evening of music and dining.
Fred Frith Solo
September 13, Entropy Gallery, Santa Fe
Experience the groundbreaking artistry of Fred Frith live in Santa Fe. Don’t miss this unique opportunity to see a legendary multi-instrumentalist and composer whose career has shaped experimental music worldwide. Join fellow music lovers for an unforgettable night of innovative sound and creative expression. Fred Frith will also give a workshop at Entropy Gallery, Santa Fe, on September 13 and 14.
Blues Night on Civic Plaza featuring Shemekia Copeland
September 13, Civic Plaza, Albuquerque
Blues Night on Civic Plaza 2025 promises a powerhouse lineup, headlined by Grammy-nominated Shemekia Copeland, whose soul-stirring vocals and acclaimed new album, Blame It On Eve, have cemented her as one of the top voices in modern blues. The evening kicks off with Chicago-born harmonica virtuoso Russ Green, celebrated for his boundary-pushing style and award-winning songwriting, followed by The Pleasure Pilots, delivering high-energy rhythm and blues with a roster of regional all-stars. Sponsored by the City of Albuquerque and supported by the McCune Charitable Foundation, this free event is a must for blues fans.
Barry Altschul 3Dom Factor with Joe Fonda and Jon
September 16, Outpost Performance Space, Albuquerque
Legendary jazz drummer Barry Altschul leads the dynamic 3Dom Factor trio, featuring acclaimed bassist Joe Fonda and saxophonist Jon Irabogon. Celebrated for fusing the entire jazz canon (from hard bop to free jazz) with original compositions and American Songbook classics, the group delivers a thrilling, complete American music experience. At 82, Altschul’s inventive drumming and the trio’s electrifying interplay make this a rare chance to witness a jazz master in peak creative form.
Barry Altschul 3Dom Factor with Joe Fonda & Jon Irabagon
September 17, Entropy Gallery, Santa Fe
Don’t miss a second chance to experience the legendary Barry Altschul and the 3Dom Factor trio live in Santa Fe. Join fellow jazz cats for an unforgettable evening of innovative jazz, original compositions, and electrifying performances by Barry Altschul, Joe Fonda, and Jon Irabogon.
Billy Childs Quartet
September 18, Lensic Performing Arts Center, Santa Fe
Renowned pianist and composer Billy Childs is acclaimed for blending his jazz heritage with twentieth-century neoclassical traditions, creating a powerful and dynamic musical style. A six-time Grammy winner with seventeen nominations, Childs has collaborated with luminaries like Yo-Yo Ma, Sting, and the Los Angeles Philharmonic, and his inventive compositions have expanded the boundaries of jazz. For this concert, he will be joined by alto saxophonist Steve Wilson, bassist Dan Chmielinski, and drummer Christian Euman, bringing a performance of exceptional artistry and innovation.
John Scofield‘s Combo 73
September 19, Lensic Performing Arts Center, Santa Fe
John Scofield, a three-time Grammy-winning jazz guitarist, is celebrated for his versatile style that spans bebop, blues, jazz-funk, organ jazz, and more. Having recorded nearly 50 albums with legendary artists like Miles Davis and Pat Metheny, Scofield now tours with a rejuvenated all-star group featuring pianist Gerald Clayton, bassist Vicente Archer, and drummer Bill Stewart.
Dianne Reeves Quartet
September 20, Lensic Performing Arts Center, Santa Fe
NEA Jazz Master Dianne Reeves is one of today’s most celebrated jazz vocalists, known for her virtuosic improvisation and unique blend of jazz and R&B. A five-time Grammy winner and the first vocalist to serve as creative chair for jazz with the Los Angeles Philharmonic, she continues to captivate audiences worldwide with her dynamic performances. Joining her will be an all-star band featuring Romero Lubambo, John Beasley, Reuben Rogers, and Terreon Gully.
A.B. Spellman Poetry Reading
September 20, Collected Works, Santa Fe
Noted poet and NEA Jazz Master A.B. Spellman reads from his new book, Between the Night and Its Music/New and Selected Poems.
Passion for Bach & Coltrane with Imani Winds; Harlem Quartet; Alex Brown-Edward Perez-Neal Smith; and A.B. Spellman, Poet and Orator
September 21, Lensic Performing Arts Center, Santa Fe
Imani Winds and the Harlem Quartet have both earned acclaim for their brilliant musicianship and for championing works by African-American and Latinx composers through performances, commissions, and arrangements. Their collaboration with former Imani Winds hornist Jeff Scott led to the creation of Passion for Bach and Coltrane, a concert-length oratorio fusing classical and jazz influences. The piece, lauded as “powerfully forward looking” and “a piece of astonishing originality,” won the 2024 Grammy Award for Classical Compendium and is praised for its transcendental, collaborative spirit. The performing ensemble features the full Imani Winds, Harlem Quartet, poet/narrator A.B. Spellman, and the jazz trio.
Linda May Han Oh
September 23, Outpost Performance Space, Albuquerque
Grammy-winning bassist and composer Linda May Han Oh is renowned for her innovative playing and dynamic improvisations, performing with legends like Pat Metheny and earning wide critical acclaim for her albums, including the latest, The Glass Hours. Originally from Malaysia and raised in Australia, Oh has received major honors and is celebrated for her inventive compositions for ensembles and film. She appears in concert with Sara Serpa (voice), Greg Ward (alto sax), Fabian Almazán (piano/effects), and Mark Whitfield Jr. (drums).
David Sánchez: Carib
September 24, Outpost Performance Space, Albuquerque
Puerto Rican-born saxophonist David Sánchez is a multi-Grammy award nominee and winner, acclaimed for his masterful blend of jazz with Afro-Caribbean and Latin influences. Sánchez’s significant discography includes influential albums such as Melaza, featured among The New York Times‘ essential 21st-century jazz albums, and Coral, which won a Latin Grammy and features rich orchestral arrangements. He has collaborated with jazz legends including Charlie Haden, Eddie Palmieri, Roy Haynes, and Stefon Harris, and is equally renowned as an educator worldwide. Joining him in this concert are Fabian Almazan (piano), Ricky Rodriguez (bass), Tony Escapa (drums), and Frankie Quinonez (percussion), promising a vibrant performance of his genre-defining music
David Sánchez: Carib
September 25, Taos Community Auditorium, Taos
Don’t miss an unforgettable night of jazz with Grammy-winning saxophonist David Sánchez in Taos. Feel the powerful fusion of Afro-Caribbean rhythms, Latin influences, and modern jazz, performed by one of today’s most celebrated instrumentalists. Join Sánchez and his exceptional band: Fabian Almazan (piano), Ricky Rodriguez (bass), Tony Escapa (drums), and Frankie Quinonez (percussion) for a spellbinding evening of music that transcends borders and connects cultures.
Nate Smith: Two shows (6:30 & 8:30 p.m.)
September 25, Outpost Performance Space, Albuquerque
Nate Smith is a sought-after drummer and collaborator, having worked with stars like Brittany Howard, Childish Gambino, Jon Batiste, and Michael Jackson. His upcoming album, LIVE_ACTION, features an all-star lineup and showcases a raw, live-recorded sound with no sequencing. Praised for his complex yet sensitive drumming, Smith earned two Grammy nominations for his 2017 album and will perform with Josh Johnson (sax), James Francies (keys), and Anna Butterss (bass).
David Sánchez: Carib
September 26, Unit B by Chocolate Maven, Santa Fe
See Grammy-winning saxophonist David Sánchez live in Santa Fe. Join Sánchez and his exceptional band Fabian Almazan (piano), Ricky Rodriguez (bass), Tony Escapa (drums), and Frankie Quinonez (percussion) for an electrifying evening celebrating the fusion of Afro-Caribbean rhythms, Latin jazz, and soulful improvisation.
Carmen Lundy
September 28, Outpost Performance Space, Albuquerque
Award-winning and two-time Grammy-nominated singer, composer, film producer, and visual artist Carmen Lundy wraps up the 19th Annual New Mexico Jazz Festival. Celebrated for her innovative musicianship and heartfelt songwriting, Lundy’s latest Grammy-nominated album, Fade to Black, features 11 original songs reflecting on loss and hope. She will be joined by Julius Rodrigues (piano), Ben Williams (bass), Andrew Renfroe (guitar), and Terreon Gulley (drums).
All acts are subject to change. Tickets on sale at NewMexicoJazzFestival.org.
Get Hip to the 19th Annual New Mexico Jazz Fest
The stage is set, the notes are waiting to be played, and the rhythm is calling. Let the New Mexico Jazz Festival 2025 take you on a sound journey embracing everything from spicy salsa energy to the nuanced jazz master improvisations throughout September 2025. Get 19th Annual New Mexico Jazz Festival tickets now!
For the latest updates, event schedules, and opportunities to support the arts, visit OutpostSpace.org.
Major Jazz Festival Support Provided by: City of Albuquerque: Mayor Tim Keller & the Arts & Cultural Department; Albuquerque City Council; Dino’s Safe Haven Concert Series; Heritage Hotels & Resorts; Kaman Foundation; Lensic Performing Arts Center; Jack Kotz; La Cumbre Brewing Company; Jean McCray & Phyllis Subin; Miriam Ray in memory of Marcus Ray; Southwest Gastroenterology Associates; Western Jazz Presenters (WJPN); and more
Festival produced in partnership with: New Mexico Jazz Workshop, Dave’s Jazz Bistro at Santa Fe School of Cooking, Santa Fe Music Collective, Taos Jazz Bebop Society, Collected Works Bookstore and Coffeehouse, Entropy Gallery, Avant Jazz Workshop, Sandbox Music, and others.
This article was posted by Jess
