New Bedford JazzFest Returns With Intimate Concert Series

SouthCoast jazz fans, rejoice! The New Bedford JazzFest 2026 Acoustic Jazz Series returns to the Steeple Playhouse in New Bedford on March 1.

For the first time, JazzFest will include two other concerts, one scheduled for April 19, and the other on June 7.

NB JazzFest founder Eric Paradis visited Townsquare Sunday to discuss the shows, the intimate venue that the Steeple Playhouse provides, and his own love of jazz.

Why the Steeple Playhouse Is the Perfect Venue

"We continued for a while under a big tent along the waterfront, but attendance started to drop off after COVID," Paradis said. "The Steeple Playhouse became available to us, so we moved there with seating for about 250 people, and decided to do a series of performances instead."

Last year's JazzFest Acoustic Series was held at the Steeple Playhouse, and according to Paradis, it was a big hit. "We love the venue because of its intimacy, and its historic nature," he said. "The sound just travels so well in there, and it really gives you that 'club' feel."

Who’s Performing at the March 1 Show

Paradis said the series will feature one band or artist per show, and will include an on-stage chat with the performer. Featured on March 1 will be drummer Yoron Israel and his jazz quartet High Standards, along with vocalist Nadia Washington.

"Yoron Israel is fabulous," Paradis said. "He's been playing shows in our region for years, and has a new album coming out this summer. He also chairs the percussion department at Berklee and is an instructor there."

How Eric Paradis Discovered Jazz

Paradis said his love of jazz began when he was in college, when at the invitation of a friend, he listened to an album by jazz trumpeter and composer Donald Byrd. Since then, he said his love of jazz has continued to grow.

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Ticket Information and Show Details

Yoron Israel and High Standards perform on Sunday, March 1, starting at 4 p.m. Doors open at 3:30 p.m. Tickets are on sale now at steepleplayhouse.org. The Steeple Playhouse is located at 159 William Street in New Bedford.

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