This Summer, CNY JAZZ In The City will be hosting free concerts on Thursdays from 6-9pm in Syracuse. This concert series will promote public health through music, food, arts and crafts, and programs. Each concert will have a different artist at various locations throughout the city.
CNY Jazz was formed in 1996 and established as an independent charity in 1998 by Larry Luttinger. According to Luttinger, Jazz being such a strong part of American history could only be preserved and shared through nonprofit work. With this mentality, he successfully grew CNY Jazz into an organization that drives social and economic change through American Jazz. One of those programs being CNY Jazz In The City, which promotes public health through the music of unique artists and ensembles.
Wayne Tucker & The Bad Mothas are a Jazz group led by Wayne Tucker. Tucker is a trumpeter, violinist, vocalist, arranger, and composer who has released 5 albums. He has worked with noteworthy artists in the Jazz world such as Kurt Elling, and in the Pop world, such as Taylor Swift. The 9 piece group now performs together, fusing their Jazz abilities..
Houston & Wynn JSF Band is a unique 5 member group, comprised of vocalist Michael Houston, keyboardist Sam Wynn, bassist Don Martin, guitarist Dave Kuykendall, and drummer Benjamin Terry. The band seamlessly blends Jazz, Funk, and Soul to create a unique sound. Each member has worked with a plethora of musicians prior to the band, helped them each develop their own personal sound.
Alex Bugnon is a Swiss Contemporary musician, composer, and band leader. He will be performing with Jeff Kashiwa, who is a Contemporary saxophonist. The two are both compelling musicians, who can blend their different skillsets to create something special.
The Blacklites are an R&B Funk group, formed in 1972. The band’s longevity caused a few lineup changes, however the heart and soul of the music stays the same. Their funky basslines, smooth rhythms, and silky vocals make them one of a kind.
Alex Torres Y Su Orquesta are a 12 piece orchestra that blend a series of Afro-Caribbean styles such as Salsa, Merengue, Bomba, and Latin Jazz. The group is led by Torres, who is a bassist and vocalist. The band has acquired several accolades, performed at the New York State Democratic convention, and have been featured on television. Additionally, the group visits schools and educates students on their cultural heritage through the Arts-In-Education program.
Summer 2026 CNY Jazz In The City Schedule
June 4 – Wayne Tucker & The Bad Mothas Spirit of Jubilee Park – 161 South Avenue
June 18 – Houston and Wynn JSF Band – 2100 E Fayette St @Boys & Girls Club
July 9 – Alex Bugnon & Jeff Kashiwa – Schiller Park, Schiller Park Roadway
July 23 – The Blacklites – Valley Plaza, 4141 South Salina St
August 6 – The Sax Summit – Syracuse Community Health Center Back Lot, 930 South Salina St
August 20 – Alex Torres Y Su Orquesta – Geddes Street Plaza, 220 South Geddes St
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