Wednesday, Jul 30, 2025 at 8:00pm
For over five decades, the Stanford Jazz Festival has been home to iconic performances, from legends like Dizzy Gillespie and Stan Getz to groundbreaking artists like Joshua Redman and Bill Frisell. This year, we’re proud to continue that tradition with 26 extraordinary artists and bands over six weeks of vibrant music and culture.
This summer, we celebrate jazz’s rich roots and its global connections. From the swinging sounds of jazz standards to the rhythms of Brazil and Cuba, our lineup promises a dynamic journey. We’re thrilled to open with Fred Hersch Trio, named Jazz Group of the Year by DownBeat Magazine. Don’t miss the Jeremy Pelt Quintet performing selections from his new album Woven, and be captivated by Ken Peplowski’s interpretation of Charlie Parker’s Unheard Bird. John Pizzarelli celebrates the 40th anniversary of his debut album, while Joel Ross brings vibraphone mastery with his band Good Vibes. Lizz Wright’s soulful vocals and George Cables’ hard bop piano mastery will close out the festival in style.
Each concert is a unique experience, with collaborations and performances you won’t find anywhere else. The Stanford Jazz Festival remains a space where musical boundaries are pushed, and new creative possibilities emerge.
Wed, 7/30/2025 @ 8:00 PM
Dayna Stephens` Intertwined
TENOR SAX INNOVATION
Renowned saxophonist Dayna Stephens is back with his fresh quartet for a sizzling live set. Featuring inventive takes on classic standards and fresh originals, Stephens and his killer band deliver a performance that ignites the stage with unbridled energy.
A DownBeat Rising Star, saxophonist Dayna Stephens is celebrated for his warm, lyrical tone and innovative approach to harmony and rhythm. Sought after by jazz greats including Eric Harland, Brad Mehldau, Fred Hersch, and Wayne Shorter, Stephens brings his extraordinary quartet to the stage for an intimate evening of compelling original compositions and inspired improvisation.
With a deep commitment to melodic storytelling, Stephens explores the singable and unexpected, crafting lines that push traditional harmonic boundaries while remaining soulful and deeply expressive. His music has resonated in the world’s top jazz venues, from Village Vanguard and Blue Note Jazz Club to SFJAZZ and Philharmonie de Paris.
A master of rhythmic dialogue, Stephens thrives on interplay, drawing inspiration from his many collaborations with legendary drummers such as Al Foster, Billy Hart, Brian Blade, and Jeff “Tain” Watts. This performance promises a dynamic, heartfelt, and unforgettable night of firebrand virtuosity.
Personnel:
Dayna Stephens, Tenor Saxophone
Cost: $18.00 - $47.00
