Jazz at McCarter
José James
Presents the 50th Anniversary of Marvin Gaye’s I Want You
With Lizz Wright
Saturday, February 7, 2026 at 7:30 PM
Marvin Gaye’s I Want You shaped the music of a generation, blending jazz, funk, R&B, soul and disco in a way that pushed boundaries and continues to inspire artists today. Internationally renowned José James — “one of the suavest vocal improvisers on the scene” (Pitchfork) — joins forces with fellow singer Lizz Wright to reimagine the music of this provocative album in celebration of its 50th anniversary.
Coltrane 100: Both Directions at Once
Wednesday, April 8, 2026 at 7:30 PM
An all-star lineup, each from different backgrounds — saxophonists Joe Lovano and Melissa Aldana; pianist Nduduzo Makhathini, bassist Linda May Han Oh, and drummer Jeff "Tain" Watts — join together to pay tribute to one of the most inspirational artists, whose creativity and spirituality has influenced generations of musicians.
Madeleine Peyroux
Thursday, May 14, 2026 at 7:30 PM
In venues across Canada and the U.S, We Are America tour will reunite the intimate trio of Secular Hymns: upright bassist Barak Mori, guitarist Jon Herington, and Madeleine Peyroux will deliver original tunes and covers by Judy Collins, Billie Holiday, Bob Dylan, Nick Lowe and Allen Toussaint - writer of the iconic We Are America/Yes We Can.
Catherine Russell & Sean Mason
Friday, June 5, 2026 at 7:30 PM
The GRAMMY-nominated voice-and-piano duo celebrate classic jazz traditions, blending Sean Mason’s sophisticated piano with Catherine Russell’s brilliant, timeless voice. Their new album, My Ideal, nods to the roots of blues, R&B, jazz, and pop while offering fresh, invigorated interpretations.
Christian McBride & Ursa Major
Sunday, June 7, 2026 at 7:00 PM
Christian McBride is an eight-time GRAMMY-winning bassist, composer, and bandleader. In Ursa Major, he is joined by four rising young master instrumentalists including saxophonist Nicole Glover, guitarist Ely Perlman, pianist Mike King, and drummer Savannah Harris.
Hamilton de Holanda Trio
Tuesday, June 9, 2026 at 7:30 PM
Hamilton de Holanda is one of Brazil’s most celebrated musicians, a global ambassador for Brazilian music, and a master of improvisation. Picking up the mandolin at the age of five, he revolutionized the 10-string version of the instrument, blending Brazilian traditions like choro with jazz and other global influences.
The Brandee Younger Trio
Wednesday, June 10, 2026 at 7:30 PM
Brandee Younger is revolutionizing the harps’ role in modern music. Over the past fifteen years, she has worked relentlessly to stretch boundaries and limitations for harpists. In 2022, she made history by becoming the first Black woman to be nominated for a GRAMMY Award for Best Instrumental Composition