Celebrating Women in Jazz This Women's History Month with 10 Vibrant Concerts

Every March, jazz venues prioritize booking female instrumentalists to honor Women's History Month. Luckily, they don't have to look far. The American jazz scene is teeming with world-class women musicians, including those who command the stage as bandleaders and enchant with their compositions.

Although women's involvement in jazz dates back to its roots, their widespread recognition has surged since the early 1990s. Today, not featuring female talents in lineups means missing out on some of the most compelling performances in the current musical landscape.

Spectacular Performances to See

Sasha Berliner is making waves as a vibraphonist, renowned for her four-mallet technique and stunning improvisation skills. Berliner is teaming up with an impressive band for a series of performances, including pianist Javier Santiago and bassist Jermaine Paul.

The Anat Cohen Tentet showcases the Israeli star's command of the clarinet and saxophone with a rich collection of material. Under Oded Lev-Ari's direction, this ensemble presents a thrilling experience with its brilliant musicians.

Brandee Younger steps up as the new SFJAZZ resident artistic director, paying homage to jazz harp legends like Dorothy Ashby and Alice Coltrane. The concert will also feature notable guests such as Meshell Ndegeocello and Ravi Coltrane.

Mara Fox Foxtet brings together a powerful quintet led by trombonist Mara Fox, with the lineup also including notable players like saxophonist Kasey Knudsen.

The Akiko Tsuruga Trio joins the celebration with Tsuruga's expertise on the Hammond B3 organ, complemented by guitarist Bruce Forman and drummer Akira Tana.

Bassist Lisa Mezzacappa and her quartet charm audiences by revisiting classics and exploring new gems in their pianoless repertoire, while Melba's Kitchen, an all-women big band, debuts with a tribute to Melba Liston's music at the SFJAZZ Center.

The Beth Schenck Quartet and Sundra Manning Organ Trio spice up the scene with their respective blends of smooth alto saxophone tones and soulful organ grooves.

Rhonda Benin's "Just Like a Woman" show marks a decade of celebrating Bay Area women in music, featuring a diverse lineup of artists and a band paying tribute to Lillian Armstrong.

The SFJAZZ Center finale focuses on vocalist Linda Tillery's expansive music career, bringing together a stellar ensemble for an unforgettable evening.

These concerts not only celebrate female artistry but also ensure that the incredible talents within the realm of jazz are given the recognition and appreciation they deserve. This Women's History Month, the stage is set for some unforgettable jazz performances by these magnificent women.

jazz, concerts, celebration