"If it sounds good and feels good, then it IS good!"
- Duke Elllington

Upcoming East End Jazz Events:

Sunday April 12th | 2 PM to 5 PM

East Meets West Jazz Jam Session

Kind of Blue & Giant Steps

John Coltrane & Miles Davis 100th Birthday Celebration

Southampton Cultural Center

25 Pond Lane, Southampton, NY 11968

Free Admission! RSVP HERE

Kind of Blue & Giant Steps: East End Jazz Celebrates Miles Davis & John Coltrane Centenaries on April 12th

Get ready to step into the "Blue Note" in Southampton. East End Jazz, in a high-note collaboration with the Southampton Cultural Center (SCC), is thrilled to announce the return of the "East Meets West Jazz Jam Session"—a free, monthly community hang that’s all about the music, the moment and the magic of improvisation. This special session commemorates a rare milestone in music history: the 100th birthday celebrations of jazz titans Miles Davis and John Coltrane.

On Sunday, April 12th, from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM, the Southampton Cultural Center at 25 Pond Lane transforms into a jazz sanctuary. We’re inviting musicians, cats, families and fans to shake off the daily grind, leave the world at the door and dive deep into the soulful rhythms of the afternoon.

The set kicks off with a 35-minute burn by a powerhouse ensemble led by two local legends: trumpeter, arranger, and composer Dick Behrke and the East End’s own alto sax firebrand, John Ludlow. Backed by a driving rhythm section, this quintet will pay homage to the 100th birthday celebrations of the titans themselves: Miles Davis and John Coltrane. Expect a journey through the iconic compositions that redefined the American soundscape.

Once the stage is seasoned, the floor opens for our signature Community Jazz Jam. Hosted by bassist and East End Jazz Director Iris Ornig, this session is a vital bridge for the community. "I saw a real hunger for people to just come together—to relax, dance, and be authentically themselves in the music," says Ornig.

A fierce advocate for the next generation, Ornig ensures the youth are front and center, mingling and exchanging musical ideas with seasoned pros in a collaborative, supportive environment. Whether you’re a vocalist, a horn player, or just someone who loves a good groove, you’re invited to sit in, meet the local jazz family, and get inspired. To keep the session tight, Ornig provides a curated songlist with charts in advance for those who want to prepare. Sign up!

Sunday May 3rd | 2 PM to 5 PM

East Meets West Jazz Jam Session

Live Film / Live Jazz

We’re transforming a traditional screening into a collaborative jam session where musicians improvise live soundtracks to classic silent film clips

Southampton Cultural Center

25 Pond Lane, Southampton, NY 11968

Free Admission

RSVP HERE

Youth Education:

Music, Movement & Jazz

We are thrilled to announce that East End Jazz is partnering once again with the Southampton Youth Bureau to bring our signature workshop series to Flanders!

Starting April 15th, 2026, this 10-week intensive program is more than just a class—it’s a launchpad for young talent. Our mission is to empower the next generation of musicians by providing a space where creativity, improvisation, and leadership take center stage.

NEW PROGRAM LAUNCH: TINY TOOES & THE JAZZ CREW

Saturday May 16th

Tiny Toes & The Jazz Crew

Where Nursery Rhymes Meet the Great American Songbook

It’s a musical journey for the littlest listeners and their families. Rehearsals start soon—get ready for some serious family-friendly swing!

Southampton Cultural Center

25 Pond Lane, Southampton, NY 11968

Free Admission

RSVP Required!

Important Note for Families: This is a collaborative experience! All children must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. RSVP is strictly required to keep the playground safe and swingin' for the little ones!

Sunday June 14th

Tiny Toes & The Jazz Crew
Two Sets: 10:00 AM & 11:45AM
Sets are approx. 60 minutes
Bridgehampton Museum
Tractor Barn at Corwith House
2368 Montauk Hwy, Bridgehampton
Please use Public Parking on Streets in Bridgehampton
These outdoor sessions are perfect for the whole family
Just bring your blankets or beach chairs
Please note that in case of rain,
Events will be held in the barn so the music never stops.

RSVP Required!

Important Note for Families: This is a collaborative experience! All children must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. RSVP is strictly required to keep the playground safe and swingin' for the little ones!

Past Performances, Interactive Workshops & Educational programs

March 15th @ 2:00 PM

Generations of Jazz -Women in Modern Jazz

Featuring emerging young local vocalists

St. Ann's Episcopal Church

"Experience the power of music and storytelling as we honor the incredible women whose voices and visions have defined the jazz tradition."

Sunday March 8th | 2 PM to 5 PM

East Meets West Jazz Jam Session

Sing-Along Jazz

Sing iconic hits like "Summertime" and "Fly Me to the Moon" with a live band.

Lyrics provided—no judgment, just fun!

Southampton Cultural Center

March 7th @ 7:30 PM

Voices of Vision: An All-Star Tribute to Women’s History Month

Jamesport Meeting House

Join us for an evening of captivating music, honoring the incredible women who have shaped the history of jazz.

January 29th @ 9:30 AM

Tune in to WLIW-FM for a radio interview with Gianna Volpe on the Heart of the East End program. Chris Mandato from HMEA and I will talk about our upcoming events, the importance of youth in jazz, and more.

Sunday February 1st | 2 PM to 5 PM

East Meets West Jazz Jam Session

HMEA Youth Big Band kicks off our monthly jazz jam session

Southampton Cultural Center

Theme Tenor Madness

Sunday January 4th, 2026 from 2 to 5PM

Southampton Cultural Center