Freedom Riders with special guests Kurt Elling & Lizz Wright

Oct 2, 2026
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Overview Schedule Performers

Overview

In the 1960s, Freedom Rider activists challenged racial segregation in the Southern United States. With reverence for their courage and struggle, this groundbreaking international jazz collective features a new generation of artists and composers who continue in the tradition of providing a soundtrack to the global civil rights movement. Joined by esteemed vocalists Kurt Elling and Lizz Wright, the Freedom Riders band offers vital inspiration through music that unites audiences with the energy and spirit of shared humanity.

Freedom Riders is a project of NYC Winter JazzFest.

Schedule
Performers
Freedom Riders
Sarah Elizabeth Charles
Vocals
Alfredo Colón
Alto saxophone
Tomoki Sanders
Tenor saxophone
Milena Casado
Trumpet
Carmen Staaf
Piano
Ben Williams
Bass
Makaya McCraven
Drums
Sasha Berliner
Vibraphone
Kurt Elling
Vocals
Lizz Wright
Vocals
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