Lineups for the 17th edition of the Charlie Parker Jazz Festival were recently announced, offering two days of first-rate, free jazz in the Big Apple. (That’s free as in it doesn’t cost money, not, like, Albert Ayler free.) The Frank Wess Quintet will headline the Saturday, Aug. 29 show at Marcus Garvey Park, and the Cedar Walton Quartet will close out the show the following day at Tompkins Square Park.
This year’s schedule deftly contrasts veterans with intriguing young talent. In addition to Wess, Saturday’s schedule includes McCoy’s alto man, Gary Bartz, and pianist Aaron Parks, whose music combines postbop know-how with the textural savvy of experimental rock. Sunday’s lineup includes Walton and Dred Scott’s fearless piano trio. Dates, locations and full lineups are below. Music starts at 3 p.m. each day.
Saturday, Aug. 29
Marcus Garvey Park (124th St. and Mt. Morris Park)
Frank Wess Quintet
Gary Bartz
José James
Aaron Parks
Sunday, Aug. 30
Tompkins Square Park (E. 8th Street, between Aves. A and B)
Cedar Walton Quartet
Papo Vazquez Pirates Troubadors
Pyeng Threadgill
Dred Scott Trio
