Dymally Jazz and Arts Festival Celebrates the Healing Power of Music

Headliner and musician David Sanborn will perform at Dymally Imnternational Jazz and Arts Festival April 30.

Grammy Award winners David Sanborn and Poncho Sanchez are teaming up to perform at the Dymally International Jazz and Arts Festival April 30 at the Dignity Health Sports Complex at the California State University Dominguez Hills campus in Carson.

In partnership with Rainbow Promotions and benefitting the Dymally Institute, the outdoor concert supports leadership development for African American students enrolled at CSUDH, pursuing careers in public policy, education and beyond to serve communities that have minimal resources.

Collaborating with Rainbow Promotions, the festival features iconic artists, including Poncho Sanchez, David Sanborn, The Original Wailers, Kirk Whalum — with special guest Kevin Whalum, Avery Sunshine, Keyon Harrold and the Fernando Pullum Junior Jazz Band.

As Los Angeles slowly emerges from the isolation of the pandemic, the festival celebrates the healing power of music as jazz lovers convene for an afternoon of culture where music and art take center stage.

“We are thrilled to share our mission at a time when the world desperately needs solidarity,” said Dr. Anthony Asadullah Samad, executive director of the Dymally Institute, which uses music and art to underwrite thought. “The past two years have been physically and emotionally devastating. The city deserves the joy that comes from melodies that speak to the soul.”

A signature fundraiser for the Dymally Institute and CSUDH, the festival supports the organization’s mission to develop the next generation of political and community leaders who will advocate for systematic change to combat inequality. With the goals of using music, art and culture to create pathways to success for African Americans and other historically disadvantaged people of color, Dymally Institute prepares students to examine political and economic structures that impact marginalized groups.

“We’ve been through such devastating times as a global community,” said musician David Sanborn. “It feels great to be together again, especially as we rally behind such an impactful cause that creates opportunities for the next generation of leaders.”

The festival features a visual arts pavilion, a community fair with health and wellness resources, community retail vendors, and two performing stages of diverse international music. Attendees can enjoy either general admission or VIP seating.

The organizers have installed hand sanitizing stations throughout the venue and have implemented other measures to keep the audience safe.

All proceeds benefit the Dymally Fellows Program, Sisters United Mentoring and Leadership Program and the Presidential Scholars at CSUDH.

Time: 1 p.m., April 30

Cost: $75 to $120

Details: www.axs.com/third-annual-dymally-international-jazz-arts-festival

Venue: Dignity Health Sports Park, Tennis Stadium, 18400 S. Avalon Blvd., Carson