ABAC Jazz Festival

The 2026 festival presents the Joe Gransden Quartet and the ABAC Jazz Ensemble under the direction of Andrew Peal.

Joe Gransden is quickly becoming one of the busiest musicians on the jazz scene. Originally forming his group in 2009, Joe and the band have continued to build momentum and are performing numerous shows around the country. He has released 14 CDs under his own name including Close To My Heart produced by saxophone great Kenny G, and his recent release Go Getta, featuring a saxophone solo by Kenny G.

Renowned for the hard bop of his trumpet, Joe Gransden’s singing voice has been compared to Chet Baker. With his 3rd invitation to perform at the Blue Note in NYC and at Feinstein’s 54 Below, Joe Gransden’s big band has enjoyed accolades from sold-out audiences all across the country including the Tehema Golf Club in Carmel, California (where Joe regularly plays events for Clint Eastwood).

“Joe is a young man with and old soul and a classic voice. He is a great new talent with a wonderful sense of humor to boot. And don’t forget, he plays a hell of a trumpet!” - Clint Eastwood

Together, the Joe Gransden Quartet and the ABAC Jazz Ensemble will provide a compelling musical experience for all ages at 7:00 PM in Howard Auditorium as a part of the ABAC Presents! Performing Arts Series. A ticket is required for the 7:00 P.M. performance.