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Jazz Appreciation Month

Get ready to tap your toes and snap your fingers - it's Jazz Appreciation Month! Don't miss out on all the events and performances celebrating this iconic genre.

Thursday

1–30

April 2027

Last updated February 7, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team

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YEARLY DATEAll of April

OBSERVED INUnited States

CATEGORYPop Culture

SUBCATEGORYMusic

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

Get ready to groove and swing because April is Jazz Appreciation Month! This month-long celebration was created by the National Museum of American History in 2002 to recognize and honor the rich history and cultural impact of jazz music. From its roots in African American communities, jazz has evolved into a highly influential genre that has influenced countless musicians and artists around the world. So put on your dancing shoes, grab a drink, and let's celebrate this vibrant and soulful music together!

TIMELINE

Jazz Appreciation Month Timeline

Jazz Roots Form

Jazz roots began to form in the African-American communities of New Orleans in the late 19th century, drawing from blues and ragtime music.

New Orleans Jazz Era

The early 20th century marked the beginning of the New Orleans Jazz era, with legendary artists like Buddy Bolden and Jelly Roll Morton.

Swing Craze Begins

The Swing era began in the mid-1930s, becoming a major form of dance music and an integral part of jazz history.

Birth of Bebop

The Bebop sound emerged in the 1940s, characterized by faster tempo and improvisation, with major contributors like Dizzy Gillespie and Charlie Parker.

Jazz Fusion Era

Jazz fusion developed in the 1970s, blending jazz influences with rock, funk, and R&B, fronted by artists like Miles Davis and Herbie Hancock.

Jazz Appreciation Month Established

In 2002, the Smithsonian National Museum of American History established April as Jazz Appreciation Month to celebrate this influential genre and its history.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate Jazz Appreciation Month

Attend a jazz concert

Check out your local music venues for jazz concerts happening in your area. This is a great way to experience live jazz music and support local artists.

HOST

Host a jazz listening party

Invite friends over for a jazz listening party where everyone can share their favorite jazz songs and albums. This is also a great opportunity to introduce others to the genre.

LEARN

Learn about famous jazz musicians

Take some time to research and learn about famous jazz musicians such as Louis Armstrong, Duke Ellington, and Billie Holiday. This will deepen your appreciation for the genre.

VISIT

Visit a jazz museum or exhibit

Many cities have museums or exhibits dedicated to jazz music and its history. Take a trip to one of these and learn more about the origins and evolution of jazz.

PLAY

Play some jazz music

If you play an instrument, take some time to learn a new jazz song or improvise over a jazz track. If you don't play an instrument, put on some jazz music and dance along or sing along to your favorite tunes.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why We Love Jazz Appreciation Month

It's a chance to discover new artists and rediscover classics

During Jazz Appreciation Month, there are often special events, concerts, and radio programs showcasing different jazz musicians. This is the perfect opportunity to broaden your jazz horizons and discover new artists, or to revisit some classic albums that may have slipped your mind.

Jazz is a unique and timeless genre

Jazz music has been around for over a century and continues to captivate listeners with its distinct rhythms, improvisation, and soulful melodies. Jazz Appreciation Month gives us a chance to celebrate this one-of-a-kind music that has stood the test of time.

It celebrates diversity and cultural exchange

Jazz is a melting pot of different styles and influences, from African rhythms to European classical music. It also played a role in breaking down racial barriers during the civil rights movement. Jazz Appreciation Month honors this rich history and ongoing impact of jazz on promoting cultural exchange.

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