Great Jazz on the Great Hill
Bring a picnic blanket, snacks, and your dancing shoes for this fun, free event!
Saturday, August 9
3:30 PM–7:00 PM
Great Hill in Central Park
(Enter the Park at 106th Street and Central Park West.)
Jazzmobile and the Central Park Conservancy present Great Jazz on the Great Hill! Enjoy an incredible lineup of world-renowned jazz performers while lounging or swing dancing in the Park. All ages are welcome.
In Partnership With:
Performances by
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Host
Lezlie Harrison
Lezlie Harrison is a personal renaissance—ever-evolving, ever-giving. As a vocalist, her vulnerable yet bold artistry uplifts and heals through jazz, blues, gospel, soul, and beyond. A beloved WBGO host, she champions America's classical music. Co-founder of The Jazz Gallery, Harrison’s global presence extends to stage and screen. Rooted in dignity and grace, her journey reflects deep legacy, vibrant expression, and unmistakable soul. -
Performer
Josh Evans
Trumpeter Josh Evans, born in Hartford, Connecticut, is a fantastic younger player—a straight-ahead trumpeter with a soulful style and melodic lines. He was inspired by Roy Eldridge and Dizzy Gillespie at age 10. Mentored by Jackie McLean, Evans has performed at the Blue Note and Iridium, and toured internationally with Rashied Ali. A former member of the Winard Harper Sextet, Evans released his debut album Portrait in 2011 and has performed with legends like Benny Golson, Cedar Walton, and Gregory Porter. -
Performer
Wallace Roney Jr.
Wallace Roney Jr.—son of jazz greats Wallace Roney Sr. and Geri Allen—is a notable trumpeter in the New York jazz scene and beyond, both as a band leader and member of the bands of various jazz luminaries. He was drawn to the trumpet early, inspired by legends like Miles Davis and Lee Morgan. Gifted his first horn at age 10, he soon performed with icons such as Chick Corea and Ornette Coleman. A graduate of Oberlin Conservatory, Roney Jr. now shines on global stages as a leading voice in today’s jazz scene. -
Performer
George Gee Swing Orchestra
A native New Yorker, George Gee fell in love with jazz as a teen, inspired by big band legends like Count Basie and Duke Ellington. At Carnegie Mellon University, he launched a hit jazz radio show and formed a 17-piece band after interviewing Basie. Returning to NYC in 2000, Gee became a swing scene staple, leading his band at Swing 46 Jazz & Supper Club—still a cornerstone of the City’s big band revival. He is a favorite band for the swing dance community in NYC and beyond!
The performance lineup is subject to change.
This event is weather permitting.
Refreshments will not be sold. Please feel free to bring your own food and non-alcoholic beverages.
For more information, contact [email protected].
Accessibility
The Great Hill is steep but accessible by ramp. There are no escorts to the hill. For ramp access, enter the Park at West 108th Street and Central Park West and take the south path up to the Great Hill.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is Great Jazz on the Great Hill?
Saturday, August 9 from 3:30 PM–7:00 PM
Where is the Great Hill?
You can access the Great Hill by entering Central Park at 106th Street and Central Park West.
What accommodation is provided for people with disabilities?
While the Great Hill is steep, it is accessible by ramp. To avoid stairs and access the ramp, enter the Park at West 108th Street and Central Park West and take the south path up to the Great Hill.
Who is performing?
Host:
Lezlie Harrison
Performers:
Josh Evans
Wallace Roney Jr.
George Gee Swing Orchestra
Is there a restroom nearby?
Yes, there is a public restroom in the Great Hill area, along with portable toilets near the event site.
Is parking available?
No, driving and parking in Central Park are prohibited.
Who attends Great Jazz on the Great Hill?
This is a free, public, family-friendly event open to visitors of all ages.
Does it cost anything to attend?
The event is free, but your donations to the Central Park Conservancy help ensure we can continue to host community events and care for the Park.
Do visitors need to reserve a ticket to attend?
No, neither tickets nor pre-registration are required.
Are concessions offered?
Concessions are not provided. There will be a water refill station available, but visitors are encouraged to bring their own food and non-alcoholic beverages. Please pack food in reusable containers to help reduce waste and support the Conservancy’s efforts to keep the Park clean and healthy.
Do you provide blankets and chairs?
No, you must bring your own blanket and/or chairs. Please refrain from using tarps, plastic, or inflatable couches, which can harm the landscape.
Are pets allowed?
Pets are not encouraged due to the amplified music at this event. If you do bring your pet, they must remain on a leash for the duration of the event.
What is your cancellation policy?
Great Jazz on the Great Hill is subject to cancellation due to weather conditions, including rain, lightning, severe heat, or high winds. Cancellation will be announced the day prior to the event. In the event of cancellation due to inclement weather, the event will not be rescheduled.