Emory Jazz Fest: Denise Thimes and the Gary Motley Trio

On February 5–7, Jazz vocalist Denise Thimes headlines Emory Jazz Fest 2026. The annual three-day festival brings world-class jazz to the community with artist demonstrations, a jazz clinic, and concerts featuring the Gary Motley Trio with bassist Kenny Davis, percussionist Samuel Jewell, guitarist Rod Harris Jr., Emory Big Band, and vocalist Denise Thimes.

Known for a “distinct style that delights audiences with a mixture of smooth, mellow tones and rich bluesy‐ness” (Exodus to Jazz), Denise Thimes has performed with such jazz notables as Wynton Marsalis and the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra, the late jazz trumpeter Clark Terry, Dr. Billy Taylor, Earl May, Benny Powell, and James Moody. She has also graced the stage with the likes of Houston Person, Jimmy and Tootie Heath, Bobby McFerrin, and Bucky Pizzarelli. She toured Paris with David Sanborn and was hand-picked by the Queen of Soul—Aretha Franklin—to perform in 2015 for her 72nd birthday celebration.

Emory Jazz Fest 2026 Schedule of Events (Events take place in Emerson Concert Hall, unless otherwise listed):

Thursday, Feb. 5 at 2:30 p.m., Lecture/Demonstration with Denise Thimes, vocalist; Free—No tickets requiredFriday, Feb. 6 at 8 p.m., Denise Thimes and the Gary Motley Trio; Tickets $10–30Saturday, Feb. 7 at 11:30 a.m., Rhythm Section Jazz Clinic; Tharp Rehearsal Hall; Free—No tickets requiredSaturday, Feb. 7 at 8 p.m., Emory Big Band under the direction of Gary Motley with bassist Kenny Davis and percussionist Samuel Jewell; Free—Tickets required