Knox-Rootabaga Jazz Festival

Start: Friday, May 8, 2026 6:00PM
End: Friday, May 8, 2026 10:00PM

The evening begins at 6:00 PM with performances by the Galesburg High School Silver and Gold Jazz Bands, directed by Dena Baity and Matt Welch, showcasing the next generation of outstanding jazz musicians. At 7:00 PM and 9:00 PM, enjoy two sets by the Alyssa Allgood Sextet, featuring: Alyssa Allgood – voice Victor Garcia – trumpet Greg Ward – alto sax Julius Tucker – piano Ethan Philion – bass Jon Deitemyer – drums About the Artists Alyssa Allgood is a Chicago-based vocalist known for her expressive sound, thoughtful interpretations, and dynamic stage presence. A DownBeat Vocal Jazz Soloist Award winner, she has toured internationally and is also a respected educator. Victor Garcia is an acclaimed grammy nominated trumpeter, composer, and bandleader whose work blends modern jazz with global influences. Based in Chicago, he has performed worldwide and is known for his bold, lyrical playing. Greg Ward is a highly regarded saxophonist and composer recognized for his inventive voice and genre-spanning collaborations. His work has earned critical acclaim, including recognition from DownBeat and the Jazz Journalists Association. For over four decades, the Knox Rootabaga Jazz Festival—known to fans as “’Baga”—has celebrated the unique spirit of the Galesburg community through a nationally recognized collaboration among schools, businesses, and local supporters, bringing world-class jazz artists to local stages. Schedule, tickets, and donation information: www.knox.edu/jazzyear Complete Schedule Knox-Rootabaga Jazz Festival Tuesday, May 5th 7pm | Free United High School Doug Stone Rootabaga School Tour Band Wednesday, May 6th 6pm-10pm | $3 Smokin' Willies BBQ (161 N Cherry St) Area High School Big Bands Cherry St Combo with Doug Stone Thursday, May 7th 7-10pm | $5 Smokin' Willies BBQ (161 N Cherry St) Faculty and Friends Band: The Faculty and Friends performance features Knox's accomplished jazz faculty and local jazz musicians from the vibrant live music community of central Illinois. Friday, May 8th 6-10pm | $10 Smokin' Willies BBQ (161 N Cherry St) 6pm: Galesburg High School Big Bands 7pm & 9pm Alyssa Allgood Sextet w/Victor Garcia and Greg Ward 8pm Cherry St. Combo w/ Doug Stone Saturday, May 9th 6:30pm | Free Admission to all thanks to the generosity of NAEIR Orpheum Theatre Rootabaga High School All-Stars Big Band (6:30pm) Knox Jazz Ensemble (7pm) The Baga Big Band (8pm) The music of Justin Haynes with special guests: Victor Garcia, Greg Ward, Doug Stone, & Alyssa Allgood