New Bedford JazzFest (NBJF) is proud to continue its JazzFest 2026: Acoustic Jazz Series, after last year’s successful inauguration. These concerts feature local live acoustic jazz in an informal setting, ideal for questions and conversation. The next concert takes place on Sunday, July 26, from 4:00-6:00 PM, with the Tim Ray Trio featuring April Hall.

Pianist Tim Ray’s wide-ranging skills as a soloist and accompanist have afforded him the opportunity to perform with legendary performers from many diverse styles of music. He is perhaps best known as Tony Bennett’s most recent pianist and musical director, appearing in concerts with him until his retirement from singing in 2020. April Hall is the consummate jazz vocalist, combining her deep roots in gospel and blues with an honest soulfulness and effervescent jazz sophistication. Hall is a faculty member at Berklee College of Music’s Voice Department.

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.

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.