The Story Behind Rochester's International Jazz Festival | Rochester Living

Episode #244 – Few events have helped shape Rochester's cultural identity quite like the Rochester International Jazz Festival. Marc Iacona joins us to discuss how the festival has evolved over the past two decades, the partnerships that make it possible, and the vision that continues to drive it forward. Along the way, we cover unforgettable performances, rising stars, community impact, and the role music plays in bringing people together. 00:00 Introduction 06:27 Festival Planning & Feedback 09:49 The Partnership Behind the Festival 12:46 Rochester's Influence on the Festival 18:40 New Additions for 2025 24:35 Why Jazz Still Matters 27:08 The Festival's "White Whale" 35:00 Legendary Jazz Jam Sessions 41:15 What Keeps Marc Going 45:30 Favorite Festival Traditions 🎧 Explore more Rochester Living Podcast episodes:    • Rochester Living Podcast   #RochesterLiving #RochesterNY #JazzFestival #RochesterEvents #LiveMusic #ArtsAndCulture