LOWCOUNTRY JAZZ FESTIVAL 2023: DAY 1

Event Details

Under the artistic direction of producer Tony Clarke, in collaboration with the Gaillard Center’s artistic team, the festival returns with a stellar lineup of award-winning jazz singers and musicians Dave Koz & Friends, Gregory Porter, Avery*Sunshine, and Jonathan Butler.

This year, the finest smooth jazz combined with bluesy soul will create a relevant sound that resonates with the region’s discerning music audiences young and old. Charleston, South Carolina played an important role in the early development of jazz. It was a thriving center of African American music in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, and was home to many of the first jazz musicians and bands. The city was also a major port, which helped to spread jazz music to other parts of the country and the world. The weekend celebrates these genres in the heart of downtown Charleston, allowing attendees to experience this vibrant cultural city with a fitting soundtrack.

The Festival is welcoming back the soulful sounds of jazz legend Dave Koz, the renowned saxophonist who delivers an unforgettable performance every time he takes the stage, and adding headliner GRAMMY award-winning artist Gregory Porter, whose cross-pollinated brand combines jazz, soul, and gospel. Inspirational singer-songwriter and guitarist Jonathan Butler and vibrant, soulful singer, pianist, and composer Avery*Sunshine will open.

The Gaillard is cementing its role as a leading non-profit performing arts center in the Southeast dedicated to commissioning and presenting ambitious cultural programming and popular performances that engage audiences, foster community, and prompt essential dialogue. Central to this is the Labor Day weekend, which sees the Lowcountry Jazz Festival take over the building.

In addition to annually bringing together jazz fans from across the Southeast, the Festival is the primary fundraiser for Closing the Gap in Health Care, Inc.