Locals, families, and jazz-lovers descended on Long Island University’s Post Campus for Tilles Center’s first annual Jazz Fest on Saturday, July 20th. Visitors enjoyed performances on Post’s Great Lawn, in the Winnick House (former estate of C.W Post), Rose Garden, and Krasnoff Theatre. Performers included Elmont and Harborfields High School jazz bands, Georgia Heers, Jalen Baker, Brandee Younger, and Sean Mason. Trombonist Mariel Bildsten marked the end of the day performances with a second line, New Orleans style parade across festival grounds. Headliner the Branford Marsalis Quartet anchored the festival with a sold-out performance in the Krasnoff Theatre. 

Visitors also enjoyed a selection of vendors that included Rosie’s Vintage, Sweet Treats to the Rescue, Jeff Lederer, and LIU’s student record label, Deep End.

Food trucks Sids All American, Demi’s Spot, and Green Street Eatery offered everything from hamburgers to vegan and gluten free tacos.  

An instrument petting zoo gave participating kids a chance to hear and play a variety of different instruments. It also allowed for an unplanned but memorable performance by Elmont High School students for even younger aspiring musicians watching.

Performances by local high school and college students were interspersed throughout the day.

We asked performers, partners, vendors, and attendees a few questions about Jazz Fest:

Planning is already underway for Jazz Fest 2025! Who would you like to see as the 2025 Tilles Jazz Fest Headliner? Comment with your choice!

For information about the 2024-2025 season and Jazz at Tilles Center, visit the Tilles Website. Tickets are on sale now.