On Sunday, February 1, 2026, the Southampton Cultural Center will host a free vibrant celebration of local talent and musical mentorship. This special performance is a highlight of the “East Meets West Jazz Jam Session,” a collaborative monthly event hosted by East End Jazz and the Southampton Cultural Center.

The afternoon begins with a featured 35-minute showcase by the Hampton Music Educators Association (HMEA) Honors Jazz Band. Comprised of the most accomplished student musicians from over 20 East End school districts—selected by audition and teacher recommendation—the ensemble will perform a sophisticated program including works by Thad Jones, Duke Ellington, and Tower of Power under the direction of guest conductor Mark Stuckey.

Following the HMEA set, the stage transitions into a collaborative jam session where all musicians and singers are welcome to sit in. This “mentorship-in-action” provides a high-energy environment for young artists to showcase their dedication and artistry while learning the nuances of live improvisation alongside seasoned professionals.

Reflecting on the importance of this bridge between generations, East End Jazz Director Iris Ornig shares:“I remember when I started playing jazz and I shared the stage with professionals—I was so nervous. But the welcome and encouragement of the adult musicians at that time meant the world to me, and my personal mission is to lift up young upcoming musicians.”

Event Information & Participation:

When: Sunday, February 1, 2026

Where: Southampton Cultural Center, 25 Pond Lane, Southampton, NY

Admission: Free to the public.

How to Join the Jam: All musicians and singers interested in performing are encouraged to participate. Please contact eastendjazzny@gmail.com to sign up.

Weather Policy: In the event of inclement weather, the concert will be postponed. Please check the East End Jazz website for real-time updates and scheduling changes.

Come support the next generation of jazz greats as they take the stage in this unique musical exchange! Whether you are a professional player looking to network or a family looking to enjoy music, community, and togetherness, this event offers a unique opportunity to connect with the local arts scene.

TO SIGN UP TO PLAY OR TO LEARN MORE, PLEASE EMAIL: eastendjazzny@gmail.com

About Hampton Music Educators Association (HMEA): HMEA is a consortium of educators and students from over 20 East End school districts, spanning from Amagansett to Westhampton Beach. Their mission is to provide high-quality performance opportunities for the region’s most accomplished musicians. Selected through auditions and teacher recommendations, these talented students rehearse under guest conductors for an annual festival featuring band, orchestra, choir, drumming, and jazz ensembles.

About East End Jazz: East End Jazz is a non-profit organization dedicated to educating, entertaining, and inspiring a community of children, parents, students, teachers, and audience members through live jazz performance and education. They perform at various venues across the East End and offer youth workshops at the Southampton Youth Bureau, Bridgehampton Child Care Center, and local daycare centers.

About Southampton Cultural Center: The Southampton Cultural Center’s mission is to provide performance, exhibition, and compelling arts and cultural education opportunities accessible to all in the greater Southampton community.