Greensboro's African American Community Newspaper since 1967
HIGH POINT, N.C. – The 14th annual John Coltrane International Jazz & Blues Festival concluded last weekend, drawing music lovers to High Point’s Oak Hollow Festival Park for a two-day celebration of world-class music, community, and the enduring legacy of one of jazz’s greatest innovators.
The festival, held on Saturday and Sunday, showcased a diverse lineup of Grammy-winning artists and celebrated musicians across multiple genres. Saturday’s performances included the lively sounds of the JC Youth Jazz Workshop, a special “Withers to Wonder” tribute featuring Nnenna Freelon, Take 6, and Clint Holmes, and electrifying sets by The Headhunters, Meshell Ndegeocello, Lizz Wright, and Snarky Puppy.
The musical journey continued Sunday with a dynamic schedule that featured West End Mambo, the N.C. Coltrane All-Star Band led by John Brown and featuring José James, blues powerhouse Ruthie Foster, smooth jazz favorites Rick Braun, Richard Elliot, and Peter White, The Baylor Project, and the legendary Stanley Clarke.
In addition to the stellar performances, the festival underscored its commitment to the next generation of musicians. A highlight of the weekend was the presentation of free musical instruments to young aspiring artists who were winners of the festival’s essay contest. This initiative, designed to help students continue their music education, embodies the spirit of Coltrane’s dedication to his craft and his hometown.
Beyond the main stage, festivalgoers immersed themselves in a vibrant atmosphere filled with a diverse array of vendors, offering everything from food to unique crafts. The event, held at Oak Hollow Festival Park, provided a beautiful lakeside backdrop for a weekend of unforgettable sights and sounds, cementing its reputation as a premier destination for jazz and blues aficionados.
