OKC Jazz Life - Feature Events

Everything Yes

A Residency in Action

Oklahoma House of Music’s September residency with Everything Yes offers a clear picture of how its model differs from a traditional concert booking.

Instead of coming to Oklahoma for a single performance, the five-member jazz-fusion band will spend two days meeting, performing and interacting with audiences in several different settings. The public schedule includes an informal lunch, an intimate concert, a performance and Q&A, and a closing jam session where local musicians can become part of the experience.

The residency also features drummer and educator ZackGrooves, whose online lessons and performances have attracted more than 700,000 followers and 100 million views.

Monday, September 21

Lunch with Everything Yes
11:30 a.m. at Midway Deli
601 W. Eufaula St., Norman

An informal opportunity to share the room—and perhaps a conversation—with members of the band.

Everything Yes in Concert
7:30 p.m. at Norman Music Institute
2901 Broce Drive, Norman

A close-up performance in an intimate setting that brings audiences within a few feet of the musicians.

Tuesday, September 22

Performance and Q&A
12:45 p.m. at the Jody Miller Performing Arts Center
Blanchard

A daytime performance paired with an opportunity for students and community members to hear directly from the artists.

Jam, Hang and Eat with Everything Yes
7 p.m. at Embassy Suites
2501 Conference Drive, Norman

The residency concludes with an informal gathering and jam session, creating opportunities for local musicians and audience members to interact with the band.

All four events are free and open to the public.

Taken together, the schedule illustrates what Oklahoma House of Music means by an artist residency: not one stage, one audience or one performance, but multiple points of connection between visiting artists and the Oklahoma community.

Champian Fulton Solo Piano — A Norman Homecoming

Thursday, September 3 | 12:00–1:00 PM Norman Public Library West | 300 Norman Center Ct., Norman | FREE Lunch Included

Internationally acclaimed jazz pianist and vocalist Champian Fulton returns home to Norman for a very special lunchtime solo performance at Norman Public Library West.

For Champian, the location carries some wonderful history. Long before she was performing on stages around the world, the building was home to Borders Books & Music, where she regularly played weekend performances beginning around 1999 or 2000. More than two decades later, she returns to that same space for an intimate hometown concert.

Join us for an hour of world-class jazz, a little Norman jazz history, and the opportunity to welcome one of Oklahoma’s own back home.

The concert is free, and lunch is included.

Mike Stern Quintet

Sat, Jun 20 @ 7:00PM - UCO Jazz Lab, 100 E 5th St, Edmond

Six-time Grammy-nominated guitarist Mike Stern brings his world-class band to the UCO Jazz Lab for an unforgettable evening of jazz, featuring an all-star lineup you won’t want to miss.

One of jazz’s true legends is coming to Edmond. Mike Stern, former guitarist for Miles Davis and Blood, Sweat & Tears, named among Gibson’s Best Jazz Guitarists and DownBeat Magazine’s 75 Best Jazz Guitarists of All Time, brings an extraordinary ensemble to the UCO Jazz Lab.

Joining him are 23-time Grammy-nominated bassist Jimmy Haslip (Yellowjackets, Kiss, Jaco Pastorius), five-time Grammy-nominated saxophonist Bob Franceschini (Tower of Power, Celine Dion, Paul Simon), guitarist Leni Stern (Dennis Chambers, Esperanza Spalding, Prince), named one of Guitar Player Magazine’s 50 Most Sensational Female Guitarists of All Time, and Oklahoma’s own legendary drummer Steve Pruitt (Snarky Puppy, Oz Noy, Bernard Wright, Phil Woods).

Hideaway Pizza and full bar service will be available inside the UCO Jazz Lab during the performance. Doors open at 6pm.

Ticket Info

Jazz in June 2026

June 18–20, 2026 — Andrews Park, Norman, OK

One of Oklahoma’s most beloved jazz traditions returns as Jazz in June brings three nights of free outdoor music to Andrews Park in Norman.

Now in its 41st year, Jazz in June continues to celebrate the full spirit of the music — from funk and fusion to soul-jazz, contemporary jazz, and world-class improvisation. This year’s lineup includes legendary guitarist Mike Stern, international bassist Vincen Garcia, Snarky Puppy collaborators Mark Lettieri and Chris Bullock, rising trumpet standout Summer Camargo, Oklahoma’s own Satin Soul, Miami-based groove trio Fat Produce, and more.

The festival is free and open to the public, with evening concerts under the summer sky and daily educational workshops at 2:00 PM. Bring a lawn chair or blanket, come early for food vendors and community atmosphere, and settle in for one of the most important jazz weekends in Oklahoma.

Thursday, June 18 — 7:30 PM
-Fat Produce
-Satin Soul

Friday, June 19 — 7:30 PM
-The Jazz Exchange ft. Mark Lettieri, Chris Bullock & Summer Camargo
-Mike Stern Band

Saturday, June 20 — 6:30 PM
-Claire Piersol
-Summer Jazz Collective ft. Summer Camargo & Vincen Garcia
-Vincen Garcia Band

This is more than a concert series — it’s a Norman summer tradition and a can’t-miss celebration for jazz fans across the Oklahoma City metro.

JazzinJune.org

Eddie Gomez Trio @ UCO Jazz Lab

February 25, 2026: A true living legend of modern jazz is coming to Oklahoma.

The incomparable Eddie Gomez brings his powerhouse trio to the UCO Jazz Lab for one unforgettable night of world-class music. Best known for his historic 11-year tenure with the Bill Evans Trio, Gomez helped redefine the role of the upright bass in modern jazz — transforming it into a melodic, conversational force at the center of the music.

With a career spanning more than six decades, Eddie Gomez has performed and recorded with jazz icons including Miles Davis, Chick Corea, Stan Getz, and Dizzy Gillespie. His lyrical phrasing, technical mastery, and fearless improvisation continue to inspire generations of musicians around the globe.

Joined by longtime collaborator Stefan Karlsson on piano and Steve Pruitt on drums, the trio delivers music that is both deeply interactive and emotionally resonant. Expect fearless improvisation, rich harmonic landscapes, and the kind of musical telepathy that only comes from years of shared experience.

Expect an evening of sophisticated interplay, masterful improvisation, and the kind of deep musical conversation that only comes from artists operating at the highest level.

This is not just a concert — it’s a rare opportunity to hear one of jazz’s most influential bassists in an intimate listening room setting.

Tickets Available Here

Wynton Marsalis & the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra

Sun, Nov 9, 3:00 PM - McKnight Center for the Performing Arts, 705 W University Ave, Stillwater

A monumental moment for Oklahoma jazz. The Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra, led by legendary trumpeter Wynton Marsalis, takes the stage for an unforgettable afternoon of big-band brilliance.
The 15-member ensemble showcases the full sweep of jazz history—from Duke Ellington to modern innovation—performed by some of the world’s leading soloists and arrangers.
Marsalis, a cultural icon and the only artist ever to win GRAMMYs in both jazz and classical categories in the same year, brings unmatched artistry and insight to every note.

Ticket Info

Jon Batiste @ The Criterion

Five-time GRAMMY and Academy Award-winning Artist

Where: The Criterion, 500 E Sheridan Ave, Oklahoma City

When: Monday, September 29 · 8:00 PM

Few artists embody the spirit of modern music like Jon Batiste. A five-time GRAMMY winner and Academy Award recipient, Batiste brings his Big Money Tour to Oklahoma City for a night that promises to be nothing short of extraordinary.

Known for his boundary-breaking artistry, Batiste seamlessly blends jazz, soul, classical, and pop into a sound that is uniquely his own. From his unforgettable live performances to his powerful presence on stages worldwide, every concert becomes a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

This is more than a show—it’s a celebration of music’s ability to inspire, uplift, and connect. Whether you’re a lifelong jazz fan or simply love great live music, this is an evening you won’t want to miss.

👉 🎟 Get Your Tickets Here

Kabana & Kruise 5th Annual All White River Takeover + Summer Gala

with Julian Vaughn

Get ready for an unforgettable night on the river Saturday, August 9, 2025 | 6:00 PM – 11:00 PM!

The Kappa Achievement Foundation of Oklahoma proudly presents the 5th Annual Kabana & Kruise All White River Takeover and Summer Gala, taking place at the stunning new OKANA Resort & Indoor Waterpark.

This vibrant all-white summer celebration is set against the breathtaking backdrop of OKC’s Boathouse District. With its 11-story, 404-room hotel and sweeping views of the downtown riverfront, the OKANA resort offers a luxe, family-friendly atmosphere perfect for dancing, dining, and summer memories.

Headlining this year’s gala is internationally acclaimed jazz bassist Julian Vaughn, known for his electrifying stage presence and a dozen Billboard #1 hits. Expect a night of world-class music, elegance, and energy as he lights up the stage with his signature sound.

Dress to impress in white and join a stylish crowd for an evening of community celebration, fine music, and pure summer magic.

🔗 For full event details and tickets, visit: https://tkafo.ticketbud.com/kabanaandkruise2025

The 2025 Charlie Christian International Music Festival Returns to Oklahoma City for a Two-Day Celebration of Jazz, Soul, and Legacy

BLAC, Inc. proudly presents the 2025 Charlie Christian International Music Festival, honoring the iconic jazz guitarist and Oklahoma native Charlie Christian. The two-day celebration will be held Friday, May 30 and Saturday, May 31 at the Bryant Center (2200 N. Bryant Ave., Oklahoma City), bringing together legendary performers, rising stars, and the vibrant community that keeps Christian’s legacy alive.

The festival showcases a rich lineup of jazz, funk, soul, and blues, featuring both local talent and nationally renowned acts. Festival-goers can expect food trucks, cultural vendors, and a welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere.

Friday, May 30 Lineup:

5:30 PM – Grady Nichols Band (Tulsa, OK)

7:00 PM – All Funk Radio Show (Dallas, TX)

8:30 PM – Jemar Poteat Band (OKC, OK)

10:00 PM – The Band Called Quest (OKC, OK)

Saturday, May 31 Lineup:

4:00 PM – Keith Johnson & The Big Muddy Band (Greenville, MS)

5:30 PM – Walter Taylor Band (OKC, OK)

7:00 PM – Koolie High (OKC, OK)

8:30 PM – Adam & Kizzie Ledbetter (Los Angeles, CA)

10:00 PM – Straight Ahead (Detroit, MI)

“Charlie Christian was a pioneer who helped shape the sound of modern jazz and electric guitar,” said Anita Arnold, Executive Director of BLAC, Inc. “This festival is a celebration of his genius and a continuation of the musical innovation he inspired.”

Tickets are $40 per day and can be purchased in advance by calling (405) 524-3800 or at the gate. The event is open to the public.

To learn more about Charlie Christian’s life and the legacy being celebrated, visit www.charliechristian.org.

SWOSU's 55th Annual Jazz Festival: A Celebration with the Legendary Count Basie Orchestra

A Historic Musical Event Returns

The Southwestern Oklahoma State University (SWOSU) is set to host its 55th Annual Jazz Festival, featuring the world-renowned Count Basie Orchestra. This prestigious event, scheduled for Feb. 13–14 2025, promises to be a remarkable celebration of jazz music and cultural heritage.

The Count Basie Orchestra: A Living Legacy

The Count Basie Orchestra, directed by Scotty Barnhart, continues to uphold the rich musical tradition established by William "Count" Basie in 1935. For nearly nine decades, this legendary ensemble has maintained its position as one of the most elite performing organizations in jazz history.

Festival Highlights

Thursday, Feb. 13

7 p.m. “In the Mix” Combo Performance: Members of the Count Basie Orchestra will perform an intimate small group concert in the Fine Arts Center. General Admission tickets are $10.

9 p.m. “In the Mix” Hors d’oeuvres Rendezvous: Attendees can gather in the Lobby Lounge of the Best Western Plus for conversation and light snacks provided by the SWOSU Music Department.

Friday, Feb. 14

5 p.m. Jazz with Pizzazz Buffet Dinner: Held at the Timothy D. Day Business Enterprise Center, this pre-concert dinner includes transportation to and from the Fine Arts Center. Tickets are $25 or $55 for a concert ticket.

8 p.m. Legendary Count Basie Orchestra Concert: Directed by Scotty Barnhart, this main event will showcase the full orchestra in the Fine Arts Center. Tickets are $10 for students, $20 for seniors, and $35 for general admission. The “Atomic Basie Pass,” which includes both the concert and the buffet dinner, is available for $55.

Ticket Info