Local And International Artists To Bring Smooth Jazz To Paterson

Paterson’s Historic Eastside Park will once again become the center of live music, culture, food, and community pride as the sixth annual Paterson Jazz in the Park festival returns on Saturday, Aug. 15, from noon to 9 p.m. 

What started as a small festival with only 500 people in attendance has now grown to 4,000 in the span of six years. The free event features both local talent as well as international jazz artists. The first Paterson Jazz in the Park took place in 2021. 

“What started as an idea to keep Paterson’s local music scene alive, as well as utilizing the Historic Eastside Park, we focused on local jazz talent,” said Therese Salmon, who is part of the Paterson Task Force for Community Action. “While local talent was always the focus, we have been able to pull some major headliners for this event as well. 

This year’s festival features contemporary jazz pianist Alex Bugnon. The acclaimed recording artist, born in Switzerland and the nephew of jazz trumpeter Donald Byrd, has had a career spanning three decades. Bugnon has enjoyed success with Billboard-charting albums and hits including “107 Degrees in the Shade,” “Harlem,” “Piano in the Dark,” and “Around 12.” He is known for his blending of jazz, R&B, gospel, and soul. 

Also taking part in this year’s festival is saxophonist, educator, and Paterson’s own Malcolm Cobb. One of Paterson’s most accomplished musicians, Cobb is known for his rich tones and performances. He was a part of Paterson’s own Rosa Parks Performing Arts High School Jazz Ensemble. 

The supporting lineup for the festival featuring regional artists includes the following: Craig Redmond & C-Dreams, Tia Holt, JD Warren, Katalyst, Bernard “Mista B.” Hill, and Larry’s Latin Music Project. 

Patterson natives who have gone on to have successful music careers and to return for Patterson Jazz in the Park include R&B and pop singer Sybil Lynch, known to others simply as Sybil. 

“We’ve built up a great lineup and mixture culturally for this community event to the point of us looking forward to it every year,” says Salmon. “With many surrounding neighborhoods having festivals, we’re building our own identity with Paterson Jazz in the Park.” 

Also throughout the day, festival guests can enjoy various local food and merch vendors, community exhibitors, and family-friendly activities 

“For folks who have moved away from Paterson, this event has sort of become an annual reunion for former residents,” says Salmon. “With Paterson being the third largest city in New Jersey, and being such a multi-cultural city, I love the fact that at least from the urban jazz perspective that we’re highlighting this musical genre as well as what is primarily an African American contribution.”

Various businesses, community sponsors, and volunteers for Paterson Jazz in the Park include the Eastside Neighborhood Association 2.0, City of Paterson Community Affairs Division, City of Paterson Division of Recreation, PSE&G, Verizon Credit Union, Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield, and NJPAC.

The Historic Eastside Park is located at 800 Broadway, Paterson. Admission is free.