Feel the thunder, swing, and soul of hard bop as the Charleston Jazz Festival celebrates the legacy of Art Blakey & The Jazz Messengers—one of the most influential forces in jazz history. An all-star band led by musical director and pianist Abdiel Iriarte, this group of Charleston musicians brings the energy and soul of one of jazz’s most iconic band leaders to life. This tribute concert honors Blakey’s explosive drumming, unrelenting groove, and his unmatched role as a mentor who launched generations of jazz legends.

Join us for an evening of straight-ahead swing, deep groove, and hard bop at its finest—music that doesn’t just honor the past, but still hits hard today. Blakey famously said, ‘Music washes the way the dust of everyday life!

Gavin Smith

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Apr 16, 2026

Charleston Jazz Festival | Jazz Messengers – A Tribute to Art Blakey · Charleston Jazz

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