Sit under the beautiful Miami Beach sky in front of the iconic Bass Museum for an unforgettable evening of world-class jazz. Known for their bold arrangements, unstoppable groove, and sheer joy of performance, the Millennial Territory Orchestra reimagines the sound of classic big bands for today’s audiences.
Under the direction of Grammy-nominated trumpeter, arranger, and composer Steven Bernstein, this nine-piece ensemble has lit up stages around the world with a mix of swing, funk, gospel, and New Orleans–inspired energy. Every performance is a celebration—equal parts masterful musicianship and irresistible fun....
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Sit under the beautiful Miami Beach sky in front of the iconic Bass Museum for an unforgettable evening of world-class jazz. Known for their bold arrangements, unstoppable groove, and sheer joy of performance, the Millennial Territory Orchestra reimagines the sound of classic big bands for today’s audiences.
Under the direction of Grammy-nominated trumpeter, arranger, and composer Steven Bernstein, this nine-piece ensemble has lit up stages around the world with a mix of swing, funk, gospel, and New Orleans–inspired energy. Every performance is a celebration—equal parts masterful musicianship and irresistible fun.
Leading the 2026 festival is the three-time Grammy Award-winning Spanish Harlem Orchestra, performing with acclaimed trumpeter Etienne Charles at the Miami Beach Bandshell on Saturday, January 10. Under the direction of pianist and musical director Oscar Hernández, the ensemble has earned international recognition for its precision, authenticity, and dedication to the hard-driving sound of New York salsa and Latin jazz. Their performance is expected to be a highlight of the festival’s 10th year. Tickets start at $42.50, and Miami Beach residents receive a 20% discount with code MB20.
The festival opens Thursday, January 8, at the Faena Theater with Grammy-winning guitarist and vocalist John Pizzarelli performing “Dear Mr. Bennett.” Known worldwide for his interpretations of the Great American Songbook, Pizzarelli’s performance honors Bennett’s enduring influence on jazz and popular music. Earlier that day, Power Access will host a free virtual discussion, “Accessibility and the Arts,” from 2:00 to 3:00 p.m., highlighting progress and innovation in inclusive cultural programming.
On Friday, January 9, “Society Jazz Night” programming begins at The Bass Museum of Art with “The Life & Music of Louis Armstrong” at 5:30 p.m. Presented by Grammy-winning historian Ricky Riccardi, Director of Research Collections at the Louis Armstrong House Museum, the lecture offers rare insights into the legacy of one of jazz’s most influential figures, followed by complimentary accessible gallery tours at 6:30 and 7:30 p.m.
That evening, the festival continues outdoors in Collins Park with Steven Bernstein’s Millennial Territory Orchestra performing at 8:00 p.m. Bernstein, a celebrated trumpeter, composer, and arranger, will lead a group of top New York musicians in a free public concert that blends classic big-band tradition with contemporary jazz expression. Bring your blanket and picnic for a concert under the stars! A VIP Reception with reserved concert seating will precede the concert at 6:30 p.m. (Tickets $75).
Saturday’s daytime programming features the Jazz for Tomorrow Student Stage, led by jazz educator Nicole Yarling, from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at Lincoln Road and Euclid Avenue. The family event showcases talented student ensembles from the Jazz Education Community Coalition (JECC), Young Musicians Unite, and The Miami Lighthouse, along with Power Access Scholarship winner Christopher Bedrossian, interactive drumming with the South Florida Center for Percussive Arts, and more! Free admission.
The festival concludes with “Jazz Hits the Road” on Sunday, January 11, with the Power Access Main Stage on Lincoln Road, running from 11:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. This full day of non-stop concerts filling the plaza at 1100–1111 Lincoln Road will feature The Spirit of Goodwill Band, Lemon City Trio, The Harden Project, Federico Britos Quintet, Spam Allstars, and more — with a finale performance by Gafieira Rio Miami featuring Special Guest Nestor Torres, plus special guests throughout the day. Free admission.
The All-Access Pass offers reserved seating and exclusive entry to all events, including orchestra seating for John Pizzarelli at Faena Theater, access to Friday’s VIP Reception, premium seating and a complimentary drink at the Spanish Harlem Orchestra concert, and VIP area entry at Sunday’s Main Stage. Limited passes are available at $275 per person.
Founded by R. David New and produced by Power Access, the South Beach Jazz Festival has become one of Miami Beach’s leading annual cultural events, known for presenting world-class jazz while advancing accessibility and inclusion in the arts. Over the past decade, the festival has hosted Grammy winners, internationally acclaimed performers, and musicians of all abilities, transforming Miami Beach into a citywide celebration of music and community.
Eventbrite RSVP encouraged for free events.
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