THE BUMP | February 16–22, 2026
The Weekly SFJAZZ Frequency
🎺 THE RECAP: A Week of Masters
The past week at the SFJAZZ Center was a masterclass in elegance and endurance. We celebrated the legacy of NEA Jazz Master Kenny Barron, whose trio reminded us why he remains the gold standard for jazz piano after more than six decades. Meanwhile, the Joe Henderson Lab was transformed by the lyrical chemistry of Anat Cohen and Marcello Gonçalves, who brought the soul-stirring music of Moacir Santos to life. We closed the weekend with the infectious energy of Bria Skonberg, whose trumpet-driven set bridged the gap between classic swing and modern pop sensibilities.
🏛️ THE SPOTLIGHT: Diva Power and Mardi Gras Spirit
This week, the frequency shifts toward celebratory big bands, viral innovators, and the incomparable power of the jazz vocal.
Delfeayo Marsalis & The Uptown Jazz Orchestra
When: Thursday, February 19, 7:30 PM.
Where: Miner Auditorium.
The Vibe: New Orleans Authenticity. A 2011 NEA Jazz Master, trombonist Delfeayo Marsalis brings the "Keepin' It Real" spirit of the Crescent City to the main stage. Expect a high-octane Mardi Gras celebration that champions the acoustic tradition with modern swagger.
Tickets: https://www.sfjazz.org
New Jazz Underground
When: Thursday, Feb 19 – Friday, Feb 20, 7:00 PM & 8:30 PM.
Where: Joe Henderson Lab.
The Vibe: The Sonic Future. This Juilliard-trained trio took the internet by storm with their viral park performances. Blending post-bop virtuosity with the rhythms of hip-hop and Afrobeat, they represent the cutting edge of the new Brooklyn sound.
Tickets: https://www.sfjazz.org
Dianne Reeves
When: Friday, Feb 20 – Sunday, Feb 22, 7:30 PM (Fri/Sat) & 7:00 PM (Sun).
Where: Miner Auditorium.
The Vibe: Vocal Royalty. Five-time GRAMMY winner and NEA Jazz Master Dianne Reeves returns to the room where she once served as Resident Artistic Director. Regarded as the preeminent jazz vocalist of our time, she delivers masterful storytelling in her sets.
Tickets: https://www.sfjazz.org
Oscar Peñas Quartet
When: Saturday, February 21, 7:00 PM & 8:30 PM.
Where: Joe Henderson Lab.
The Vibe: Global Fusion. Catalan guitarist Oscar Peñas bridges the worlds of folk, jazz, and classical music. His quartet delivers an evocative, cinematic soundscape reflecting his Mediterranean roots.
Tickets: https://www.sfjazz.org
Gregory Porter
When: Sunday, February 22, 8:00 PM.
Where: Davies Symphony Hall.
The Vibe: Soulful Grandeur. Two-time GRAMMY winner Gregory Porter brings his earthy, baritone refinement to the Davies stage. Known for his "soaring uplift," Porter’s performances are a singular fusion of jazz, soul, and gospel.
Tickets: https://www.sfjazz.org
Lisa Mezzacappa Five(ish)
When: Sunday, February 22, 6:00 PM & 7:30 PM.
Where: Joe Henderson Lab.
The Vibe: Best of the Bay. Bassist and composer Lisa Mezzacappa is a pillar of the Bay Area's creative music scene. Her "Five(ish)" ensemble offers a playful and rhythmically driving exploration of modern improvised music.
Tickets: https://www.sfjazz.org
🎙️ THE PIPELINE: Podcast Update
Listen to our latest conversations with Omar Sosa and Oscar Peñas below as they discuss their creative processes and their upcoming performances in the Joe Henderson Lab.
Coming Soon: We have exclusive interviews with Bay Area bassist Lisa Mezzacappa and jazz vocalist/pianist Sarah McKenzie on the horizon as they prepare for their upcoming residencies.
🗓️ ON THE HORIZON
Clear your schedule for Hiromi's return. The world-renowned pianist brings her "Sonicwonder" quartet to Miner Auditorium starting February 26 for a four-night residency that promises to push the boundaries of synth-driven fusion and high-speed acoustic interplay.
Keeping Jazz Alive in the 415
