New Bedford JazzFest (NBJF) is proud to bring back its JazzFest 2026: Acoustic Jazz Series after last year’s successful inauguration. The events will feature local live acoustic jazz in an informal setting, ideal for questions and conversation beginning Sunday, March 1, from 4:00-6:00 PM. Local jazz favorites Yoron Israel and High Standards will bring their cool vibe and sophisticated sound to the Steeple Playhouse for the first concert on March 1. The series will continue on Sunday, April 19, and Sunday, June 7.
Yoron Israel is a drummer, percussionist, composer, band leader, educator, and author. Israel is Department Chair and Professor of Percussion at Berklee College of Music. He has performed with such varied and notable artists as Otis Clay, Shirley Caesar, Kenny Burrell, Horace Silver, Sonny Rollins, Abbey Lincoln, Ahmad Jamal, Benny Golson, David “Fathead” Newman, Curtis Fuller, Art Farmer, Clark Terry, Joe Henderson, Bobby Hutchinson, James Williams, Joe Lovano, and many more.
Additionally, he is featured on over 300 recordings with various illustrious artists as an accompanist. As a leader, He has recorded seven albums, including his most being, New Dreams, featuring his ensemble “Trio Plus.” He will be accompanied by Ian Buss on saxophone, Laszlo Gardony on keyboard, Greg Loughman on bass, and featuring Leah Hinton on vocals.
Doors will open at 3:30 PM. Acoustic Jazz concerts will feature concessions as well as a JazzFest merchandise table. New Bedford JazzFest is excited to once again host its events in the historic Steeple Playhouse, located at 159 William Street in downtown New Bedford. General admission tickets are $30 for adults, $25 for seniors/students/military, and $5 through Mass. Card to Culture. All tickets are available at SteeplePlayhouse.org. The festival takes place rain or shine, as it is indoors. The building is completely accessible to all, and there is free parking on the street, as well as in the adjacent parking lot and Elm Street Parking Garage.
Stay tuned for upcoming concerts in the Acoustic Jazz Series in April and June.
New Bedford JazzFest and the Acoustic Jazz Series are made possible by the Mass Cultural Council as well as the Acushnet, Dartmouth, Mattapoisett, and Westport Cultural Councils.
