The 2018 White Plains Jazz Festival, presented by ArtsWestchester, features 20+ free and affordable concerts at a variety of up close and personal venues throughout the city from September 12-16. From Grammy-Award-winning pianist and composer Arturo O’Farrill to DownBeat Magazine’s Alto Saxophonist of the Year for six of seven years running Rudresh Mahanthappa to young groundbreaking artists and composers Emmet Cohen, Veronica Swift and Marquis Hill, the White Plains Jazz Fest is a treat for jazz lovers or the jazz curious.

This year’s headlining performers reflect a broad range of styles, from straight ahead to post-bop. While over half the performers have roots in Westchester, the festival features the sounds of jazz traditions from around the world including Brazil, Puerto Rico, Cuba, Colombia, Mexico, Chicago, Philly, and New York.

ArtsWestchester will host three of the most intimate performances in its gallery, located at 31 Mamaroneck Ave., White Plains. Other White Plains venues include Grace Church, Court Street Farmers Market, the White Plains Library, The Galleria at White Plains, Morton’s Steak House, Sofrito, Ron Blacks Beer Hall and Mediterraneo.

The festival concludes on Sunday, September 16 with the White Plains Jazz & Food Festival. At this free event, four acts will perform from noon to 5:30pm including headliner Marquis Hill Blacktet, winner of the 2014 Thelonious Monk International Jazz Trumpet Competition, vibraphonist Jay Hoggard, Samba New York and saxophonist Lakecia Benjamin & Soulsquad who has shared the stage with Stevie Wonder and Alicia Keys. Five White Plains restaurants will provide fest fare including Gaucho Burger, Buffalo Wild Wings and Anthony’s Coal Fired Pizza. Here’s each day’s headliners:

Thursday