Since 2004, the DC Jazz Festival (DCJF) organization has provided enriching and entertaining jazz performances and programs that introduce students and adults from all walks of life to jazz; our nation’s singular original art form. DCJF presents a selection of the jazz genre’s most acclaimed artists as well as emerging artists and provides enhanced exposure for the rich treasure trove of musicians from the Washington, DC area. Throughout the year, DCJF nourishes the community with free music education programs that extend our reach into underserved communities and enhance the quality of life for DC public and charter school students.

Mission

The mission of the DC Jazz Festival (DCJF), a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization, is to:

- Present internationally world-renowned and emerging artists in celebration of jazz;

- Unify diverse communities and enable connections between artists and audience year-round;

- Advance jazz and music education by providing exciting, adventurous and diverse musical experiences for audiences of all ages and backgrounds in the greater DC area as well as out-of-town visitors;

- Provide performance opportunities for DC-based jazz musicians; and

- Highlight DC as a major and vibrant center for jazz; and as a premier cultural destination

Goals

DCJF's goals are to:

- To present exciting, adventurous and diverse programming for all ages and backgrounds

- To create exceptional festival experiences

- To provide free, innovative music education programming for children and adults

- To honor the District’s rich legacy of jazz

- To develop year-round, multi-year dynamic partnerships

- To highlight DC JazzFest as a premier destination for jazz

- To ensure organizational sustainability alongside artistic excellence