Jazz Forward Initiative presents the 2026 Mo Jazz Music Festival

Four stellar groups take to the outdoor stage at Rose Music Hall for a free, open to the public, and family friendly day of jazz! Doors open at noon and the music starts at 1:00 pm. Up first is the St. Louis based Antonio Foster Quintet, bringing straight-ahead with a touch of fusion. Band #2 is out of Chicago, Hot Like Mars. This five-piece funk-soul-jam brings listeners to their feet. The third slot is the local, well-known Tom Andes and his quartet. Sharing several original pieces, this is Tom's 20th appearance at a Jazz Forward Initiative (JFI) festival since 1992. Last, and certainly not least, and headliner for this year's fest, is the Mark Lettieri Group. Multi-Grammy winner Lettieri brings his four-piece to the stage for high-octane guitar-based instrumental music. Bring your chairs and blankets. Let's make it a day in the open, breathing fresh air and fresh music! Any good-weather incantations you can share will be greatly appreciated.