The Valley Forge Tourism & Convention Board is kicking off excitement for the 5th annual Montco Jazz Fest with two free public concerts this weekend.

These preview performances are held to offer audiences an “early taste of the festival”, which is set to return this fall (Sept. 15–20) with both local and national artists. The preview series begins this Thursday, July 9, at the Abington Art Center (515 Meetinghouse Road, Jenkintown) with Philadelphia-based trombonist and vocalist Hailey Brinnel, joined by special guest Mervin Toussaint.

Recognized as one of its “10 Emerging Jazz Artists to Watch,” Brinnel has performed alongside renowned artists and ensembles like the Smithsonian Jazz Masterworks Orchestra, Terell Stafford, John Clayton, and the DIVA Jazz Orchestra. Toussaint, a Haitian American saxophonist and composer, has become a rising voice in Philadelphia’s jazz scene, and is known for a blend of jazz, R&B, neo-soul, and contemporary influences in his music.

The outdoor concert on Thursday will feature food trucks, dancing, and beverages, with guests encouraged to bring lawn chairs or blankets.

The second preview performance this weekend is set for Saturday, July 11, at Upper Merion Township Building Park (175 W. Valley Forge Road, King of Prussia). Dubbed ‘A Celebration of John Coltrane & Miles Davis’, this concert will feature Nasir Dickerson and The Life Light Empower Band.

Dickerson, an Emmy Award-winning music educator and multi-instrumentalist,  has shared the stage with artists like Lauryn Hill, Doechii, Busta Rhymes, The Roots, and Donald Byrd. Known in the industry as a composer, producer, recording artist, and educator, Dickerson has released three albums and continues to mentor the next generation of musicians through his work with youth jazz ensembles. This second concert will also will include food trucks, a beer garden, cocktails, and reserved premium seating, with free registration required for general admission.

The concerts will gear the area up for the 5th annual Montco Jazz Fest. When it returns in September, the festival will feature live performances, family-friendly activities, educational programs, and interactive experiences at venues across the county. Grammy-nominated jazz vocalist Joanna Pascale will serve as festival curator once again, continuing her role in shaping the festival’s artistic vision.

In addition to celebrating five years of musical creativity, the 2026 festival will also honor the 100th birthdays of jazz icons Miles Davis and John Coltrane. As a release notes, through performances by acclaimed local and national artists, Montco Jazz Fest will “pay tribute to their enduring influence while offering audiences an unforgettable week of world-class jazz and community celebration.”

To learn more information about Montco Jazz Fest and the upcoming preview concerts this weekend, visit valleyforge.org

MORE: Summer of music: Festival lineups you can’t miss in and around Philly

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