Bebop pioneer Charlie “Bird” Parker is often credited for bringing jazz into the modern era. And for the past 27 years the festival named in his honor has been held each August in lower Manhattan and Harlem. This year’s event took place from Aug. 21 – 25 and featured Dee Dee Bridgewater, Ravi Coltrane and many more.
Also, festival organizers celebrated the centennial of the Harlem Renaissance, highlighting the artistic and creative energy that has made Harlem a world renown artistic community. From jazz to swing and blues to be-bop, this year’s festival honored Harlem’s artistic contributions. Scroll through the gallery for a glimpse at some of the performances.
