Knox-Rootabaga Jazz Festival: Faculty and Friends Concert with guest vocalist Mar Vilaseca

Since 1995, the Knox-Rootabaga Jazz Festival has kicked off the weekend early with the Knox Faculty and Friends Combo Jam Session. This collection of musicians represents the vibrant live jazz scene in central Illinois, showcasing the world-class talents of Knox jazz instructors and professional jazz performers from the Quad Cities, Galesburg, Peoria, and many points between. It is a rare pleasure to bring so many area performers together on one stage for this annual event, and the group never fails to inspire audiences, reminding us of the rich musical culture we have right here in our hometowns. Featuring: Justin Haynes, Joel Linscheid, Steve Jackson, Zoë Rose, Semenya McCord, Jason Brannon, Nikki Malley, Andy Crawford, Whitney Ashe, Jim Curless, Corey Kendrick and More!

All ages are welcome. There is a full bar and you can bring food from any of our fantastic local restaurants, some within walking distance. (No outside beverages are allowed.)
The Galesburg Community Arts Center is located at 349 E Main Street (the northwest corner of Main and Seminary Street. Look for the open sign.)

For over four decades,the Knox-Rootabaga Jazz Festival, or “‘Baga” as it’s known to fans, has been a true celebration and affirmation of the unique spirit of the Galesburg community— a “small” community that has achieved the rare accomplishment of sustaining and growing an annual jazz festival of national renown. The festival reflects a unique collaboration between schools, businesses, and the Galesburg community. The greatest jazz artists from around the world have graced the stages of Rootabaga. Schedule, tickets and donation information is available at www.knox.edu/jazzyear.