Melton Mustafa Jazz Festival

Celebrate 29 years of jazz excellence with a weekend of live performances in Historic Overtown. The 29th Annual Melton Mustafa Jazz Festival returns February 26 to March 1 to the Black Archives Historic Lyric Theater, honoring the legacy of acclaimed jazz trumpeter Melton Mustafa Sr. and South Florida’s own bass virtuoso, Jaco Pastorius.

Sunday’s lineup includes a red carpet and VIP reception followed by performances from the Melton Mustafa Orchestra featuring Jesse Jones Jr., Lenard Rutledge, and others. The evening culminates with the Jaco Pastorius Big Band, directed by Peter Graves, and a special guest artist to be announced.

Founded in 1996, this festival has become a cornerstone of Miami’s cultural calendar, offering a platform for local and international artists, students, and educators while fostering a love for jazz across all backgrounds.