Milwaukee Jazz Institute
Press Release

Milwaukee Jazz Institute Connects Milwaukee to Global Stage with International Jazz Day Celebration on April 30

 

By - Apr 16th, 2026 11:52 am

MILWAUKEE, WI (APRIL 16, 2026) — On Thursday, April 30, 2026, Milwaukee Jazz Institute (MJI) will join several cities around the world in celebrating International Jazz Day with a public watch party and live music experience at Saint Kate – The Arts Hotel.

The evening will begin with live jazz in the hotel’s lobby bar, featuring performances by MJI student ensembles and faculty, along with surprises and giveaways throughout the night. The celebration continues in the Arc Theatre with a livestream of the official International Jazz Day Global Concert happening in Chicago, connecting Milwaukee audiences to performances by artists from around the world. The event is free and open to the public.

“This is one of those moments where you can feel the connection between what’s happening locally and what’s happening globally,” said Mark Davis, artistic director at MJI. “You can hear live jazz right here in Milwaukee, then turn your attention to the livestream and realize you’re part of something much bigger.”

Event Details

  • Date: Thursday, April 30, 2026
  • Time:
    • 5-7 p.m. live jazz in the lobby bar
    • 7-10 p.m. watch party livestream in the Arc Theatre
  • Location: Saint Kate – The Arts Hotel, 139 E Kilbourn Ave, Milwaukee
  • Admission: Free and open to the public

More information is available at https://milwaukeejazzinstitute.org/event-details/jazz-day-2.

International Jazz Day, established by UNESCO in 2011, recognizes jazz as a powerful force for cultural exchange, creativity, and community building. The April 30 global concert in Chicago is part of a monthlong celebration taking place in more than 190 countries.

As interest in jazz education and performance continues to grow locally, Milwaukee Jazz Institute’s programs have expanded to serve both young musicians and adults seeking high-level ensemble experiences. The International Jazz Day event highlights that momentum while placing Milwaukee within a broader global context.

NOTE: This press release was submitted to Urban Milwaukee and was not written by an Urban Milwaukee writer. While it is believed to be reliable, Urban Milwaukee does not guarantee its accuracy or completeness.

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