The Women’s
Jazz Festival
is back
March 17-19, 2028 | Kansas City, MO
Quick History
50 years in the making
The Women’s Jazz Festival was first incorporated in 1977 by organizers Dianne Gregg and Carol Comer. The organization produced the first event of its kind on March 17-19, 1978. It was the first jazz organization in the world to feature women artists.
The WJF brought international attention and audiences to Kansas City. It showcased young, unknown talent who used this as a springboard to gain widespread fame. And it helped resurrect the careers of women who had left the public eye due to lack of opportunity.
The 50th Anniversary Celebration in 2028 honors this legacy and celebrates the new achievements by women and gender non-conforming jazz musicians.
Upcoming Events
(coming soon!)
50th Anniversary Playbill
We’re busy dreaming and planning the festival. Here’s a bit about what to expect
concerts
clinics
jam sessions
master classes
FREE screening of
“The Girls in the Band”
The Women’s Jazz Festival is a nonprofit organization with a mission to create opportunities for an increasing number of female jazz artists and to cultivate an interest in America’s art form: jazz.
After the first Women’s Jazz Festival incorporated in 1977, the organization hosted seven festivals between 1978 and 1985 that garnered international media coverage and attendance. It was the first organization in the world to feature women artists.
The 50th Anniversary Celebration in 2028 honors this trailblazing event with concerts at The Music Hall, clinics, jam sessions, master classes, and a free screening of “The Girls in the Band.” There will also be several events and ways to get involved in 2027, including smaller concerts at the Folly Theater, weekly podcasts, fundraising events, and master classes.
We hope you’ll join us!