Lee’s Summit Jazz Fest: Celebrating the culture of Jazz in Lee's Summit

Step into the rhythmic world of Lee's Summit Jazz Festival and discover the beat that has shaped our city's culture for decades. Explore the roots of jazz in our community as we delve into its history and influence in this vibrant blog post

Cultural significance of Jazz in Lees Summit

With a rich history dating back to the early 20th century, jazz found its way into the hearts and souls of Lee's Summit, reflecting the city's diverse heritage and vibrant spirit. The proximity to larger areas like Kansas City allows for the exchange of different jazz styles and ideas contributing to the evolution of jazz culture in the Lee’s Summit area. 

Jazz music brings a sense of diversity to the community of Lee’s Summit.

Jazz, or music in general, is known to bring people together and help people build connections over the joy of music. Through the many previous events and events to come, jazz creates opportunities for socializing and connecting through a common interest, as well as opportunities for cultural celebration. The presence of jazz music in the community hosts a great opportunity for drawing people in and enhances the city's appeal as a destination.

Jazz activities in Lee’s Summit

Jazz history is alive and moving in Lee’s Summit, so come and see what it’s all about! Around Lee’s Summit you’ll find multiple places to soak up some of that musical heritage. One of them, The 1909 Club, is a captivating lounge that pays honor to jazz history, and creates a soulful atmosphere to enjoy the beauty of live jazz. 

At Bridge Space, we have been striving to bring more jazz culture to our city by hosting a Lee’s Summit Jazz Club, partnering with Lee’s Summit Jazz Orchestra. Some of the events throughout the years include our Christmas Jazz Concert, Valentine's Day Concert, as well as many other concerts. 

The Lee's Summit Jazz Festival 2024

On June 22nd, 2024, Bridge Space will be hosting our first-ever Jazz Festival! You can spend the entire day enjoying the music, visiting art vendor booths,  eat at food trucks, and soak in the rich culture of jazz in your local downtown area. Sign-ups for sponsorships and volunteer opportunities are now available with the button below. With your help, we are hoping to make this a memorable day for our community! This event will last from 12:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. Early bird tickets are now available, 3 for $20, get them while they last! Indulge in beautiful jazz music while enjoying food trucks and artist displays!

Get to know our musicians:

Back Alley Brass Band

Are a highly sought after jazz band based in Kansas City, MO. With experience from many different events throughout Kansas City, this band will bring the heart of jazz straight to Lee’s Summit! With their New Orleans-style jazz, they are sure to impress with beautiful and lively music!

Amber Underwood

Focuses on soulful jazz and is a flutist native to Kansas City. She incorporates various styles and genres of jazz focusing on smooth jazz with R&B sounds. The combination of all of the genres creates an unforgettable experience! 

The Sons of Brasil

Are a jazz band heavily influenced by Brazilian jazz. The shared love for Brazilian jazz throughout this band is apparent through the way they have dedicated their lives to this music. They are all KC locals and have been playing in the area weekly since this band was founded in 1991. Their unique style and passion for their music makes this band remarkable!

Lee’s Summit Jazz Orchestra

A big, local jazz club dedicated to preserving authentic jazz, and giving a place for musicians to showcase their talents. Lee’s Summit Jazz Orchestra has many events hosted across Lee’s Summit. Many of the participants in this club are local educators wanting to have a creative outlet!

How this Jazz Festival impacts our community

We are partnering with the Alzheimer's Association of Kansas City for an official “Longest Day” event. These donations will help support research seeking a cure or better treatment for this disease. Pouring money back into the community as well as supporting the Alzheimer's Association creates a win-win situation that benefits many! We are also supporting and donating proceeds from the event to  Downtown Mainstreet of Lee's Summit, and the Lee's Summit Jazz Orchestra.

We hope to bring a new level of "Local Jazz" to Lee's Summit year after year! With your help and support of the festival,  just attending the event will make a difference for our communuty. Learn more about the event by following the button below and we hope to see YOU at this years first annual Jazz Festival 2024.