Lewiston Jazz Festival announces 2026 lineup featuring Bria Skonberg & Paul Marinaro

5 stages of music return to Lewiston Aug. 28-29

Lewiston Jazz Festival press release & logo graphic

The Lewiston Jazz Festival, presented by Northwest Bank, will once again transform the picturesque Village of Lewiston into a vibrant destination for jazz on Friday, Aug. 28, and Saturday, Aug. 29. Recognized as one of the region's most beloved summer traditions, the festival features internationally acclaimed artists, standout regional performers, and emerging talent across five stages throughout the village.

Main Stage highlights

The 2026 Main Stage lineup reflects the festival's commitment to honoring jazz tradition while celebrating its continued evolution.

Friday, Aug. 28

The festival opens with the Ladies First Jazz Big Band, a Western New York favorite known for energetic performances and exceptional musicianship.

Headlining Friday evening is acclaimed Chicago vocalist Paul Marinaro, making a highly anticipated return to Western New York. Known for his rich baritone voice and expressive storytelling, Marinaro is widely regarded as one of today's premier interpreters of the “Great American Songbook.”

Saturday, Aug. 29

Saturday's Main Stage begins with a special performance by the Zodiaque Dance Company, continuing the festival's tradition of blending music and dance.

Additional Main Stage performers include:

•Sally Terrell, a vocalist, pianist, and songwriter with roots in Lewiston-Youngstown.

•Laura Dubin, a Rochester-based pianist known for her lyrical style and refined swing.

•Gabrielle Stravelli, an internationally acclaimed vocalist recognized for emotional depth and versatility.

The festival culminates with a performance by internationally celebrated trumpeter and vocalist Bria Skonberg, a Juno Award-winner known for her dynamic stage presence, virtuosic trumpet playing, and modern take on classic jazz traditions.

5 stages across Village of Lewiston

Beyond the Main Stage, four additional stages will showcase diverse jazz performances throughout the weekend.

Friday performances include:

•Back Room Jazz Band

•Gregory Street Vagabonds (Rochester), in collaboration with SwingBuffalo

•Paul Todaro and the Standards

•Donny Frauenhofer

•Matt's Music Vocal Performance Team

Saturday performances include:

Center Street Stage

•Cheryl Ferris Quartet

•Vanessa Vacanti Quartet

•Wendell Rivera Latin Jazz Ensemble

•Special appearance by the Temple University Parliament Sextet, featuring members of the Temple University Jazz Band

Frontier House Stage

•Paul Hage & Mirage

•Dominic Missana and Friends

•Dave Hill Group

•MASTI World Music Ensemble

Peace Garden Stage

•Ann Mitchell (Rochester)

•The Beard and the Bird (San Diego)

•Elena Izquierdo

DiCamillo Courtyard Stage

•Kathy Carr

•Becky Davis and Tony Ceasarano

•Susan Friedman with Ken Kauffman

Festival vision

"As artistic director, our goal each year is to present a lineup that reflects both the rich traditions of jazz and the exciting voices shaping its future," Tony Zambito said. "The Lewiston Jazz Festival is about bringing extraordinary music to the community while showcasing the beauty and spirit of Lewiston."

Sponsors

The Lewiston Jazz Festival extends its sincere appreciation to the organizations whose support makes this event possible. Special thanks to:

•Presenting Main Stage sponsor: Northwest Bank

•Center Street Stage sponsor: Modern Disposal Services

•Frontier House Stage sponsor: Sevenson Environmental Services

•Peace Garden Stage sponsor: Niagara Falls Bridge Commission

Additional thanks to our Platinum Level sponsors: Niagara Frontier Publications (Tribune/Sentinel • Dispatch), Town of Lewiston, Basil Ford of Niagara Falls, and Woods Oviatt Gilman LLP.

More event details

With five stages, acclaimed performers, and a scenic village setting, the Lewiston Jazz Festival continues to rank among the nation's premier summer jazz events. The festival also features a wide array of food and beverage vendors, creating a full weekend experience for music lovers of all kinds.

Admission is free. For more information and a full performance schedule, visit www.lewistonjazz.com.