The Central Jersey Jazz Festival Returns Live In Somerville

SOMERVILLE, NJ — The Central Jersey Jazz Festival (CJJF) is making its return to live performances for its 2021 season with a stop in Somerville.

This is the first time the festival is back in-person since switching to a virtual performance last year due to the coronavirus pandemic.

"After such a trying year for artists everywhere, we're elated to be able to come together to support our line-up of musicians and enjoy the sounds that have become a staple of Fall in Somerville," said Natalie Pineiro, Downtown Somerville Alliance, executive director.

This year's schedule of performances includes:

Flemington: Friday, Sept. 10, 7 to 10 p.m.

• Davell Crawford, “The Prince of New Orleans”
• Charles Turner Quartet

New Brunswick: Saturday, Sept. 11, 1 to 6 p.m.

• Emily Braden Quartet
• Mark Whitfield Quartet
• Terrell Stafford Quintet

Metuchen: Saturday, Sept. 11, 6 to 9 p.m.

• Marcus Printup Quintet Featuring Riza Printup
• Metuchen High School Jazz Ensemble
• Family Jazz Ed with Riza and Printup Band

Somerville: Sunday, Sept. 12, 2 to 6 p.m.

• NJPAC Jazz for Teens, alumni trio
• Dara Tucker
• Orrin Evans Quartet

The Central Jersey Jazz Festival is a free event, open to the public. Participants are encouraged to bring their chairs or blankets and arrive early to secure the best possible seating.

To take precautions against the spread of the COVID-19 virus, masking is encouraged where social distancing cannot be achieved.

For additional information on the Central Jersey Jazz Festival, visit centraljerseyjazzfestival.com or follow them on social media @centraljerseyjazzfestival.

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