5th Annual
High Country
Jazz Festival
Experience Jazz in the High Country
JUNE 10-14, 2026
Celebrate music, community, and culture at the Appalachian Theatre of the High Country and numerous local food venues. The High Country Jazz Festival blends big-city talent with small-town charm, where every note echoes through the Blue Ridge Mountains.
World Class Artists
From award winning headliners to rising jazz innovators, experience an incredible lineup spanning classic swing, smooth contemporary, and cutting-edge improvisation.
Days of Jazz
Immerse yourself in a weekend of unforgettable performances and community celebration. Every note echoes through the Blue Ridge Mountains during this three-day festival.
Appalachian Theatre
All performances take place at the beautifully restored Appalachian Theatre in downtown Boone — a historic venue with state-of-the-art sound and an intimate, welcoming atmosphere.
Artist Lineup
El Arte del Bolero: Miguel Zenón & Luis Perdomo
Wednesday, June 10, 2026
6:30 PM – 8:30 PM
Appalachian Theatre of the High Country (map)
Grammy-winning saxophonist Miguel Zenón and acclaimed Venezuelan pianist Luis Perdomo join forces to celebrate the beauty of the Latin American songbook in El Arte del Bolero. What began as an intimate duo session during the pandemic evolved into two critically acclaimed albums, including the Grammy-winning El Arte del Bolero Vol. 2. Their performances transform beloved boleros—romantic ballads rooted in Latin tradition—into soulful, forward-thinking jazz interpretations.
Ticket includes a pre-concert wine and cheese reception and onstage general admission seats for this unique exclusive event.
Spyro Gyra
Friday, June 12, 2026
7:30 PM – 9:30 PM
Appalachian Theatre of the High Country (map)
For over five decades, this legendary jazz fusion band has thrilled audiences worldwide with its unique blend of jazz, R&B, Latin, and pop. Known for their Grammy-nominated albums and the smash hit Morning Dance, Spyro Gyra delivers an unforgettable live experience filled with energy, creativity, and world-class musicianship. The HC Festival is delighted to host one of the most influential contemporary jazz groups of all time.
Wycliffe Gordon
Saturday, June 13, 2026
7:30 PM – 9:30 PM
Appalachian Theatre of the High Country (map)
Musical ambassador and interpreter of “America’s” music, Wycliffe Gordon is one of the world’s most renowned and award-winning jazz trombonists touring today. His signature sound and mastery of the plunger mute have helped solidify his impressive musical career. Wycliffe has recorded or been featured on over 300 recordings, has composed and arranged hundreds of compositions, including the theme song for NPR’s “All Things Considered,” and is a passionate, sought-after educator.
Emmet Cohen Trio
Sunday, June 14, 2026
3:00 PM 4:30 PM
Appalachian Theatre of the High Country (map)
Emmet Cohen is a leading jazz pianist and composer, celebrated for his artistry and commitment to the traditions and future of jazz. A recognized prodigy who began piano at age three, Cohen blends technical mastery with deep musical expression. He leads the acclaimed Emmet Cohen Trio, performs worldwide, and created the popular livestream series Live From Emmet’s Place, which has reached millions online. Cohen champions intergenerational learning through his Masters Legacy Series, collaborating with jazz legends like Ron Carter and Benny Golson. His work spans performance, education, and innovation, making him one of the most influential voices in contemporary jazz.
Festival Packages
Choose the package that fits your weekend—both include all three headliner shows (Fri, Sat & Sun).
Proudly Supported by our Community
The High Country Jazz Festival is a community celebration made possible by people who give their time, talent, and generosity. Whether you join our volunteer team or sponsor the festival, your support helps keep live jazz and the arts thriving in the High Country.
Mast General Store
Creekside Electronics, Inc.
Each Ticket Supports the Arts
The High Country Jazz Festival is more than a weekend of great music — it’s a celebration of community and creativity.
Proceeds from every ticket support local nonprofits and music-education programs that keep the arts alive in our mountain region.
Volunteer
Join our festival team and help create a weekend of music, joy, and connection. From greeting guests to assisting artists backstage, our volunteers make every performance possible.
Sponsorship
Local businesses and individuals are the heartbeat of the High Country Jazz Festival. Your sponsorship fuels live performances, music education, and community impact.
Don’t miss…
Jazz in the High Country.
We’re here to answer your questions, email us for the fastest reply!
© High Country Jazz Festival. Copyright 2026.