We strive to:

Educate and enlighten listeners to the artistry, beauty, and history of Jazz, America’s own art form.

Entertain and inspire, audience and musician, young and old, resident and visitor, through the presentation of quality jazz in beautiful, inspiring settings.

Support the growth, development and vitality of the jazz art form through our live performance and education programs.

Create a distinctive series of annual programs and events to serve performers, students, teachers and the audience. 

Our performances range from free outdoor concerts featuring regional and national jazz favorites, to our Labor Day Weekend Party, which draws exceptional musical talent and jazz aficionados from around the country and around the globe. Whether you prefer to listen to jazz while relaxing under a sunny Rocky Mountain sky, or to get down with the musicians themselves, the Vail Jazz Festival offers something for everyone.

With educational programs and activities such as the Vail Jazz Workshop and Jazz Goes to School, we are able to reach out to the next generation of players and listeners. Jeff Clayton The VJF is determined to fulfill its mission by expanding the audience for jazz while supporting young and established artists in their quest to create great music.