One of the most unique music venues in Santa Cruz County is commemorating half a century of performances and music education in 2025. Founded in 1975 in a former bread bakery, Kuumbwa Jazz Center remains in its original location today, attracting locals and visitors for its eclectic calendar of performers.  

While the venue was founded by jazz enthusiasts, Kuumbwa has seen an array of artists grace its stage over the years. Guitarists like Pat Metheny, vocalists, and world renown musicians such as Dizzy Gillespie, Art Blakey, Chick Corea, and Wynton Marsalis have all played at Kuumbwa. Embracing music in all forms, the venue has hosted New Wave musician Thomas Dolby, Western Swing artist Carolyn Sills, and others. In addition to being the oldest weekly jazz nonprofit organization on the west coast, the venue specializes in jazz education – including Jazz Camp for grades 8 – 12, Artists in the Schools, bringing performers to classrooms in an effort to support music education.