Jon Dryden live in Santa Cruz

Experience Jon Dryden live on August 20th

Jon Dryden will perform at Kuumbwa Jazz Center in Santa Cruz, California on August 20, 2026. Dryden is a guitarist known for a distinctive style blending jazz improvisation with elements of Brazilian music, particularly samba and bossa nova. His compositions often feature intricate harmonic structures and rhythmic complexity, drawing influence from artists like Baden Powell and Pat Metheny while maintaining a uniquely personal sound. He frequently performs solo acoustic guitar and also leads ensembles incorporating percussion and other instruments.

Kuumbwa Jazz Center has been a significant venue for live jazz and world music since its founding in 1976. Originally established as a collective by musicians seeking a dedicated performance space, Kuumbwa (“a gathering place” in Swahili, chosen to reflect its inclusive spirit) quickly became central to Santa Cruz’s cultural landscape. The center operates as a non-profit organization committed to presenting diverse artists and providing music education programs. Its intimate setting—a converted warehouse—is renowned for excellent acoustics and close proximity between performers and audience members. Kuumbwa regularly hosts both internationally recognized artists and emerging talent, contributing significantly to the preservation and evolution of jazz traditions.