For over five decades, the Stanford Jazz Festival has been home to iconic performances, from legends like Dizzy Gillespie and Stan Getz to groundbreaking artists like Joshua Redman and Bill Frisell. This year, we’re proud to continue that tradition with 26 extraordinary artists and bands over six weeks of vibrant music and culture.

This summer, we celebrate jazz’s rich roots and its global connections. From the swinging sounds of jazz standards to the rhythms of Brazil and Cuba, our lineup promises a dynamic journey. We’re thrilled to open with Fred Hersch Trio, named Jazz Group of the Year by DownBeat Magazine. Don’t miss the Jeremy Pelt Quintet performing selections from his new album Woven, and be captivated by Ken Peplowski’s interpretation of Charlie Parker’s Unheard Bird. John Pizzarelli celebrates the 40th anniversary of his debut album, while Joel Ross brings vibraphone mastery with his band Good Vibes. Lizz Wright’s soulful vocals and George Cables’ hard bop piano mastery will close out the festival in style.

Each concert is a unique experience, with collaborations and performances you won’t find anywhere else. The Stanford Jazz Festival remains a space where musical boundaries are pushed, and new creative possibilities emerge.

Sun, 7/20/2025 @ 7:30 PM

John Santos Quintet with Special Guest Yilian Cañizares

TRANSCENDENT JAZZ AND AFRO-CUBAN FUSION

Experience the fusion of jazz, classical, and Afro-Cuban rhythms as rising star Yilian Cañizares and acclaimed multi-GRAMMY nominee John Santos Sextet deliver an unforgettable, dynamic, culturally rich Latin Jazz celebration.

Experience an evening of extraordinary musical artistry led by the groundbreaking John Santos Sextet. Under the visionary leadership of multi-GRAMMY nominee and USA Fontanals Fellow John Santos, this celebrated ensemble delves deep into the historical and cultural roots of Latin Jazz with masterful precision. Their performance showcases an intricate interplay of rhythm and improvisation through vibrant renditions of Latin American classics, jazz standards, and bold original compositions that push musical boundaries.

Kicking off the show, acclaimed artist Yilian Cañizares joins the Sextet for an exciting set of original music. The Cuban-born, Swiss-raised virtuoso brings her signature fusion of jazz, classical, and Afro-Cuban rhythms, infusing the evening with electrifying creativity and soulful expression.

Together, the John Santos Sextet and Yilian Cañizares deliver an immersive celebration that seamlessly bridges tradition with modern innovation, sure to leave audiences inspired by a vibrant journey of artistry, virtuosity, and joy.

John Santos Website

Yilian Cañizares Website

Personnel:

John Santos, Percussion

Yilian Cañizares, Violin & Vocals

Cost: $20.00 - $62.00

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