Hank Roberts live in Santa Cruz

Experience Hank Roberts live on September 24th

Hank Roberts will perform at Kuumbwa Jazz Center in Santa Cruz, California on September 24, 2026. Roberts is a jazz saxophonist and composer known for a distinctive style blending elements of post-bop, free improvisation, and influences from diverse musical traditions including Balkan music and American folk. His work often features complex harmonies, rhythmic interplay, and a focus on melodic development. He has released numerous albums as a leader and sideman, frequently collaborating with musicians across a broad spectrum of genres.

Kuumbwa Jazz Center has been a significant venue for live jazz performance since its founding in 1976. Originally established as a collective by musicians seeking a dedicated space for jazz in Santa Cruz, Kuumbwa (meaning “together” in Swahili, reflecting the cooperative spirit of its origins) quickly became renowned for presenting both established artists and emerging talent. The venue is known for its intimate setting fostering close interaction between performers and audience members. It operates as a non-profit organization dedicated to the preservation and promotion of jazz music through performances, education programs, and community outreach initiatives. Kuumbwa’s programming consistently features a diverse range of jazz styles.