NEA Jazz Master Delfeayo Marsalis to Headline Bradley Beach Jazz Festival

Published by New Jersey Stage

originally published: 12/11/2025

Delfeayo Marsalis

(BRADLEY BEACH, NJ) -- The Bradley Beach Jazz Festival has announced the full schedule and lineup for its second annual event, transforming the shore town into a vibrant hub of sound and swing from February 6-7, 2026. The festival is anchored by three spectacular Main Stage sessions on the weekend, featuring an internationally renowned lineup led by NEA Jazz Master and master trombonist, Delfeayo Marsalis.

Weekend Main Stage Lineup & Location - The Main Stage concerts will take place on Friday, February 6th, and Saturday, February 7th, at the acoustically rich Historic Bradley Beach Elementary School Theatre

The Main Stage Headliner: Delfeayo Marsalis - A member of New Orleans' legendary Marsalis family, Delfeayo Marsalis is one of the most respected trombonists, composers, and producers in modern jazz. Known for his "technical excellence, inventive mind and frequent touches of humor," Marsalis brings his signature New Orleans sound to the Jersey Shore for a weekend of unforgettable music.

"We are incredibly proud to bring the energy and artistry of musicians like Delfeayo Marsalis to Bradley Beach for our second year," said Amy Baker, Tourism Director and festival founder. "Holding our Main Stage events in the beautiful, historic Elementary School Theatre gives the audience an intimate and focused environment to experience the very best in jazz, while our free weeknight shows celebrate the talent and spirit of our local venues."

Tickets: All-access tickets for the Main Stage weekend events on February 6th and 7th are available for just $25.00.

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In addition to Delfeayo Marsalis, the weekend lineup features an exceptional roster of world-class musicians:

* John Lee with Roberta Gambarini: The celebrated bassist and vocalist, renowned for their sophisticated interpretations and deep commitment to the jazz tradition.

* Winard Harper: A masterful drummer and bandleader known for his hard-swinging style and powerful rhythmic drive.

* Jerry Weldon: The dynamic tenor saxophonist, celebrated for his soulful tone and long-standing collaborations with jazz legends.

* Lezlie Harrison Quartet - Lezlie Harrison is a jazz vocalist, WBGO radio host/curator, and a co-founder of the renowned New York performance space, The Jazz Gallery. Known for her distinctive delivery in Jazz, Blues, Gospel, and Soul, she has performed globally and occasionally works as an actress.

* John Petrucelli - John Petrucelli is an award-winning tenor saxophonist, composer, and scholar originally from New Jersey. He began his career performing in the Trenton club scene and has since earned multiple advanced degrees, including a PhD in music. Known for blending straight-ahead jazz tradition with contemporary research, he has studied and mentored with jazz legends like Geri Allen and Charles Tolliver, and currently curates the custom saxophone shop, SHORE SAX.

Free Weeknight Jazz Takes Over Local Venues - In a commitment to accessibility and community engagement, the festival will kick off the week with three nights of FREE events, showcasing incredible talent at popular local venues:

Tues, February 3: Marel Hidalgo @ The Elbow Room

Wed, February 4: Stringbean Blues with Bernard Purdie @ Uva

Thurs, February 5: Vintage Vibe Tribe @ Darcy's Tavern

These free events offer the perfect opportunity for families, students, and local music lovers to enjoy high-quality jazz performances at no cost.

Attendees are encouraged to visit the official festival website for the complete schedule, specific start times for all events, and to purchase Main Stage tickets.

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