Jazz & Beyond Music Festival


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Sun., Aug. 23, 2026
Final day of festival
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Just one event happening on this day. Details are displayed below:
  • 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. - Sapphire Jazz Ensemble presents "A Tribute to Natalie Cole & Nancy Wilson" at McFadden Plaza Stage


 

Photograph of Sapphire Sapphire Jazz Ensemble presents "A Tribute to Natalie Cole & Nancy Wilson" - Sun. 8/24/2026 - 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. - Bob McFadden Plaza Stage, S. Carson St. between 2nd and 4th Streets

Founded in 2023, Sapphire is an all-women big band dedicated to showcasing the work of female composers and arrangers and providing performance opportunities for its members. This multi-generational ensemble blends jazz standards with contemporary new works, focusing on a mission to inspire the next generation of performers. Through open rehearsals and community collaborations, Sapphire creates a unique, inclusive space for students and local artists to connect through the power of music.

A note from Nichole Heglund, Sapphire Jazz Ensemble Director:
The Sapphire Jazz Ensemble empowers women in music through performance, education, and mentorship. By collaborating with nationally recognized jazz artists and creating a supportive, inclusive culture, we aim to inspire the next generation of young women to take the stage, amplify their voices, and keep playing.

2026 has been a milestone year for Sapphire Jazz Ensemble.

So far this year, we've had the honor of collaborating with poet Monae's Muse for a powerful tribute to women, hosting the inaugural Reno Jazz Festival Jam for Girls, and sharing the stage at Jazz in the Schools with acclaimed jazz violinist Sara Caswell.

Don't miss our next performance! Join us on Sunday, August 23rd for "A Tribute to Natalie Cole & Nancy Wilson" at the Jazz & Beyond Festival. We'll be taking the McFadden Stage from 6:30 PM to 8:30 PM. See you there!

This is Sapphire's second appearance at Jazz & Beyond, their first being on Aug. 25, 2024. Click HERE to see them play "Stateline Strut" by Ellen Rowe on that concert. A tribute to
    Cole and Wilson flyer

Performers are:
Director: Nichole Heglund
Alto Saxophones: Jessica Dodge Overstreet, Caitlyn Hoon
Tenor Saxophones: Natalia Tomasello, Leslie Stockholm
Baritone Saxophone: Missy Mazurowski
Trumpets: Cassidy Robinson*, Rachel Perkins, Joi Cerveri, Brenda Dodge*
Trombones: Carol Gribbin, Kate Kirkpatrick, Hailey Carpenter, Elizabeth Jones
Rhythm Section:
- Erika Paul, piano & vocals
- Caryn Neidhold, bass
- Roan Stefani, drums*
- Celeste Myler, drums/percussion*
- Cami Thompson, percussion & vocals
(*substitute musician).

Click HERE for Sapphire's website.

Click HERE for Sapphire's YouTube channel.

Seating is limited - bring chairs.

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This page last updated 8/6/2026