Rochester vibraphonist speaks about returning to Rochester jazz festival

ROCHESTER, N.Y. – A Rochester Music Hall of Famer returned to the Rochester International Jazz Festival on Sunday for two performances with his group.

Joe Locke, a vibraphonist who has performed with The Beastie Boys, Grover Washington Jr, and other music legends, spoke about his love for the festival. He’s a Rochester native and six-time recipient of the Jazz Journalists Association’s “Mallet Instrumentalist of the Year” Award.

“It’s special every year when I play here. I’m from here and my music is informed by where I come from. And it’s always really super meaningful for me to come back and perform here,” Locke said.

The 22nd annual jazz festival runs through Saturday, June 28, filling the city’s streets and concert venues with music from world-class artists. In total, there will be over 285 shows across 18 different stages. You can see a guide to the festival here.

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