By Popular Demand: DC Jazz Festival Welcomes Back Gregory Porter And The String Queens
November 16 Benefit Concert at The Anthem supports year-round music education
WASHINGTON, DC (September 29, 2026) — DC Jazz Festival (DCJF) announced today that two-time GRAMMY Award-winning vocalist Gregory Porter will headline its Night of Stars Benefit Concert on Monday, November 16, 2026, at The Anthem in Washington, DC, with acclaimed DC-based ensemble The String Queens opening the evening. Both return to DC Jazz Festival by popular demand for a night of extraordinary music in support of the organization’s year-round music education programs.
Porter and The String Queens have each created memorable moments on DC Jazz Festival stages. Porter returns following acclaimed appearances at DC JazzFest, while The String Queens return to The Anthem after opening DCJF’s sold-out 2024 Benefit Concert. This year, their stars shine together on one stage, raising funds to help DC Jazz Festival educate the next generation of young musicians.
“We are thrilled to welcome Gregory Porter and The String Queens back by popular demand,” said Sunny Sumter, President and CEO of DC Jazz Festival. “Gregory is one of the great voices of our time, and The String Queens are extraordinary musicians, educators and ambassadors for the power of music. As music teachers themselves, they understand firsthand how access to music education can shape a young person’s life. This will be a special night—great artists giving back to help ensure that young people have opportunities to learn, create and find their own voices through music.”
One of the most celebrated vocalists of his generation, Gregory Porter has captivated audiences around the world with his unmistakable baritone, deeply expressive songwriting and signature sound rooted in jazz, soul, blues and gospel. The two-time GRAMMY Award winner will headline an evening celebrating exceptional artistry and the transformative power of music.
Known for their vibrant blend of classical technique, jazz, soul and contemporary music, The String Queens have earned national recognition for performances that are both virtuosic and deeply engaging. Beyond the stage, all three members are dedicated music educators, making their participation especially meaningful. Their commitment reflects the spirit of the evening: artists using their gifts not only to inspire audiences, but to give back and help open doors for the generation coming behind them.
Proceeds from the Night of Stars Benefit Concert support DC Jazz Festival’s year-round music education programs, which give young people opportunities to learn, perform and collaborate with professional musicians and experience jazz as a living art form. Through its JazzDC education initiatives, DCJF cultivates creativity, confidence, collaboration and the next generation of artists and audiences.
EVENT DETAILS
Gregory Porter
The String Queens (Opener)
Monday, November 16, 2026, 7:30 p.m.
The Anthem / Washington, DC
7:30 p.m. – Opening Performance by The String Queens
8:10 p.m. – Gregory Porter
9:30 p.m. – Afterparty in the Marquee Lounge featuring DJ Murph
Tickets are available for purchase at Ticketmaster. The Anthem is located at 901 Wharf Street, SW, Washington, DC 20024
For press inquiries, contact Lydia Liebman, DCJF publicist, at lydia@lydialiebmanpromotions.com.
Learn more about the DC Jazz Festival and all of our programs by visiting www.dcjazzfest.org.
###