American Jazz: Then, Now, and Next
The Past, Present, and Pulse of Jazz
Jazz has always been about motion—ideas passed from one generation to the next, reshaped by place, culture, and personal voice. The 2026–27 Jazz Series at Segerstrom Center for the Arts traces that living continuum, from the architects who defined the music, to the artists redefining it today, to the voices carrying it forward.
This season places legendary figures like Duke Ellington, John Coltrane, and Thelonious Monk in conversation with today’s most inventive performers. At the season center is our first-ever Artist-in-Residence, six-time Grammy winner Arturo O’Farrill, whose work embodies jazz as both tradition and transformation. Across seven performances, the series moves fluidly between big-band power, intimate storytelling, Afro-Latin roots, and bold new expressions—designed for listeners who value discovery and mastery.
Subscribe NowExplore the 2026-27 Jazz Series
Arturo O'Farrill & Afro Latin Jazz Orchestra
September 19, 2026
Renee & Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall
Arturo O’Farrill and the Afro-Latin Jazz Orchestra launch the season with a thrilling opening night. Big-band power, Afro-Latin rhythms, and modern jazz collide in a performance that demonstrates how the genre continues to absorb, respond, and reinvent.
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Isaiah Collier Plays Coltrane
October 3, 2026
Samueli Theatre
Saxophonist Isaiah Collier brings new life to the music of John Coltrane. Reverent yet fearless, this performance connects jazz history to the voices shaping its future.
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Jason Moran Presents Duke Ellington: My Heart Swings
with Pacific Symphony
October 27, 2026
Renee & Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall
Jason Moran and Pacific Symphony reimagine the music of Duke Ellington in a sweeping, contemporary performance. A bold conversation between jazz history and modern orchestral sound.
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Caity Gyorgy
January 22, 2027
Samueli Theatre
Caity Gyorgy returns with an intimate evening of jazz standards and originals, with ETHEL quartet. Effortless charm and classic style connect with contemporary sensibility.
Arturo O'Farrill: Copacabana Nights
February 19, 2027
Samueli Theatre
Arturo O’Farrill turns the Samueli Theater into a Latin dance floor for one unforgettable night. Dress up, grab a drink, and let the rhythm take over as jazz becomes a celebration and a festive escape.
Bonus Option available to add on to your series
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LUCÍA
March 12, 2027
Samueli Theatre
Lucía makes her Segerstrom Center debut with a vibrant blend of jazz, Latin tradition, and original voice. A rising star and a glimpse into jazz’s future.
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Alfredo Rodriguez Band ft. Pedrito Martinez
April 24, 2027
Samueli Theatre
Alfredo Rodriguez and Pedrito Martinez deliver a high-energy night of Latin–infused jazz. Virtuosity, rhythm, and raw excitement expand expressive possibilities.
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Rumba Para Monk Revisited
May 7, 2027
Samueli Theatre
Arturo O’Farrill closes the season with Rumba para Monk Revisited. A vibrant tribute that fuses jazz history with Afro-Latin rhythm—bold, celebratory, and unforgettable.
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Hear the music; feel the beat
Since 1987, Segerstrom Center has stood as Orange County’s premier destination for exceptional live jazz, and through the Jazz Series, we are committed to showcasing America’s only original art form. From our opening concert with Ella Fitzgerald to today, our expertly curated series includes rising stars and celebrated icons alike and crafts the perfect lineup of exceptional talent. Throughout this series’ rich history, countless jazz greats have graced our stages including Dave Brubeck, Wynton Marsalis, and Diana Krall.
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Every show, a new grooveSubscribe today and unlock exclusive benefits
Best seats at the best prices
Seats are made available to season ticket holders before they're offered to the general public. These seats are also often a better deal, with some marked down as much as 40%. Also, single ticket prices can increase for popular shows, so season tickets are an even better deal.
Learn moreAccess to Center Rewards Card
This personal membership card entitles our valued patrons to receive special offers and members-only discounts from area retailers and restaurants that support Center programs and events.
Learn moreFront of the line priority
Season ticket holders who renew their current seats each season receive front-of-the-line priority for seating upgrades and ordering additional seats for Broadway Series, Curtain Call Series and bonus option performances.
Learn moreSwing into something new: First timer's guide
We can't wait for you to experience live music on our stages. Here are some helpful tips to ensure your debut visit is a great one.
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When should I arrive
We recommend arriving at least one hour before showtime to give yourself plenty of time to park, walk, and settle in. If you’re extra early, come hang out on the Julianne and George Argyros Plaza, listen to the music playing, and check out our gorgeous fountain out front!
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What if I’m late?
We understand that sometimes arriving late to a performance is out of your control. Even if you are only a few minutes late, you may need to remain in the lobby for a little while for the safety of the performers and to preserve the artistic experience for those already seated. We’ll find an appropriate pause in the show as soon as possible and let you in. We want you to catch as much of the performance as you can!
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What’s the parking situation?
The closest parking is in the Plaza Tower Parking Structure, which is across Park Center Drive from the Westin South Coast Plaza and directly behind the concert hall and South Coast Repertory. Current rates for performance parking are $15. For more information on parking, click here.
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Is there a dress code?
There is no official dress code here. Most guests go for a business or business-casual attire, but whether you’re in jeans and a t-shirt or full formalwear, you’re welcome. For the safety of our patrons with allergies or sensitivities, we ask that you keep fragrances light. Our goal is to make sure everyone has a great time!
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Are food and beverages allowed inside?
Please enjoy any snacks before the show so you can fully soak in the experience! Samueli Theater is a small space with incredible acoustics, but unfortunately that means any noise in the audience (including polite chewing) is probably picked up and can be heard by those around you.
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Can I bring my phone into the theater?
Before the show starts, please turn off or silence all electronic devices. If you put it on vibrate, it can sadly still be heard by those around you—that little buzz is louder than you think!
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Can I record or take pictures of the show?
Samueli Theater is a stunning space, and we’d love for you to capture your experience, but not while the artists are performing. Take this as an opportunity to fully unplug and immerse yourself in the intimate atmosphere of our renowned jazz shows, cell phone-free! Feel free to use your phones before or after the performance.
