Ashley Jemison: 2026 New Works Fest at SJZ Break Room

2026 Jazz Aid Fund awardee Ashley Jemison is a saxophonist and composer bringing a fresh voice to contemporary smooth jazz, blending the warmth of R&B, the soulfulness of gospel and the polish of modern pop into vibrant, emotive storytelling. Her courageous battle with breast cancer strengthened her purpose as an artist, infusing her music with healing, hope, and resilience. She'll give the world premiere of her San Jose Jazz-commissioned "Movin' Up" in her New Works Fest set.

Rooted in a deeply musical church upbringing, Jemison’s sound carries spiritual depth, a warm tone and an improvisational style that invites listeners into moments of joy, reflection and connection. She has performed alongside celebrated artists including Grammy Award–winning pianist Tammy L. Hall and renowned smooth jazz bassist Tony Saunders....

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2026 Jazz Aid Fund awardee Ashley Jemison is a saxophonist and composer bringing a fresh voice to contemporary smooth jazz, blending the warmth of R&B, the soulfulness of gospel and the polish of modern pop into vibrant, emotive storytelling. Her courageous battle with breast cancer strengthened her purpose as an artist, infusing her music with healing, hope, and resilience. She'll give the world premiere of her San Jose Jazz-commissioned "Movin' Up" in her New Works Fest set.

Rooted in a deeply musical church upbringing, Jemison’s sound carries spiritual depth, a warm tone and an improvisational style that invites listeners into moments of joy, reflection and connection. She has performed alongside celebrated artists including Grammy Award–winning pianist Tammy L. Hall and renowned smooth jazz bassist Tony Saunders.

Her artistry has been featured on stages such as The Blue Note Napa, Keys Jazz Bistro, and Mr. Tipple’s, and she has been invited to perform for major organizations including Google, Apple, Netflix, TEDx, Facebook, Yelp, and the American Cancer Society.

Based in the Bay Area, Ashley continues to share her message with audiences who leave inspired by her story and are reminded of music’s transformative power.

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