April is recognized nationwide as Jazz Appreciation Month (JAM), a time dedicated to celebrating the rich history, cultural impact, and ongoing evolution of jazz. Established in 2001 by the Smithsonian, JAM was created to encourage people of all ages to engage with jazz—through listening, learning, attending performances, and supporting artists. More than a celebration, it serves as a call to action, inviting communities to recognize jazz as both a historic treasure and a living, breathing art form that continues to shape American culture.
Often described as America’s first authentic art form, jazz was born in the American South—rooted in African American musical traditions, spirituals, blues, and improvisation. From New Orleans to cities across the country, jazz has grown into a universal language that transcends boundaries, connecting people through rhythm, storytelling, and shared experience. Jazz Appreciation Month highlights this journey, showcasing how the genre reflects the nation’s history while continuing to evolve as a symbol of creativity, resilience, and unity.
Each year, JAM is accompanied by a commemorative poster that honors influential figures and moments in jazz history. The official 2026 poster continues this tradition by celebrating legendary icon Tony Bennett, in time for the 100th anniversary of his birth.
Here in Atlanta, Jazz Appreciation Month builds momentum for one of the city’s most anticipated cultural events—the Atlanta Jazz Festival and our 31 Days of Jazz. As one of the largest free jazz festivals in the country, the Atlanta Jazz Festival (AJF) embodies the spirit of JAM by bringing together world-class musicians, emerging artists, and diverse audiences in celebration of this enduring art form. Together, Jazz Appreciation Month and the AJF remind us that jazz is not just music—it is a reflection of who we are, where we’ve been, and the creative future we continue to build.