Drummer

On Sunday, December 14, 2025, the Mendocino Music Festival invites you to gather once again in the warm, wood-paneled intimacy of the Abalone Room at the Little River Inn for the return of Big Time in Little River. This cherished holiday-season tradition pairs world-class artistry with the Festival’s signature hospitality, bringing unforgettable music to a room alive with candlelight, laughter, and good cheer.

This year’s featured guest is the incomparable Kenny Washington, whose luminous voice and spellbinding stage presence have made him one of the most celebrated jazz vocalists of our time. With his impeccable phrasing, astonishing range, and deeply personal interpretations, Washington transforms every song into a story that feels both timeless and newly discovered.

Big Time in Little River 2025

Little River Inn

Recently dubbed the “Superman of the Bay Area jazz scene” by the San Francisco Chronicle, Kenny Washington is a jazz virtuoso who thrills audiences with his soulful interpretations, seemingly limitless range, and rapid-fire scatting. Ravi Coltrane has declared Kenny his favorite male vocalist, and Mark Murphy said in a Jazz Times interview that Kenny was the only contemporary male vocalist carrying on the tradition.

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Kenny Washington, with John R. Burr

Preston Hall

Enjoy an unforgettable evening of jazz as the Naples Philharmonic Jazz Orchestra takes the stage in Daniels Pavilion for a special summertime performance with acclaimed vocalist Kenny Washington. Known for their versatility, artistry and swingin’ style, the jazz orchestra keeps the spirit of their beloved All That Jazz series going into the warmer months with colorful arrangements, sizzling solos and seamless interplay. Washington’s soulful voice and magnetic presence only further turns up the heat, promising a night full of energy, spontaneity and unmistakable cool.

Kenny Washington

Artis–Naples

GRAMMY-winning pianist Bill Charlap has established himself among the most respected keyboardists in jazz and leads one of the longest lived and telepathic piano trios working today, featuring bassist Peter Washington and drummer Kenny Washington. They will be joined by a pair of special guests: vocalist and 2017 NEA Jazz Master Dee Dee Bridgewater, and trumpet icon Nicholas Payton.  

Bill Charlap Trio

SFJAZZ Center

Together, Kenny Washington, Nicolas Bearde and Jamie Davis are the Vocal Gents of Jazz. Having given memorable performances at Summer Fest in years past, they are teaming up for the very first time, offering individual and ensemble interpretations of the music of Duke Ellington, Count Basie and Joe Williams.

Drummer

Kenny Washington

Events

Past events

Dec 14, 2025

Big Time in Little River 2025 · Mendocino Music Festival

Jul 15, 2025

Kenny Washington, with John R. Burr · Mendocino Music Festival

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