On October 3, the Milford Arts Council (MAC) presents its first-ever Jazz'n Downtown festival. While the full lineup is still to be revealed, a few names offer a taste of what's in store. Grammy-winning pianist Zaccai Curtis — half of the Curtis Brothers, who wowed MAC audiences just last November — will take the stage fresh off his January 2026 Latin Jazz Album win. Brass Queens, a dynamic young ensemble bringing fresh energy to the genre, rounds out this early preview. And for those lucky enough to snag a coveted spot, Chino Pons will perform at an intimate, limited-ticket brunch at Stonebridge Restaurant.
"When you're walking through, you're going to hear blues, Spanish, swing, woodwinds, and horns," says Sands, who leveraged her deep connections in the jazz community to assemble the lineup. "It's almost like the history of jazz on display in one day."
Sands approached performer selection with both intentionality and heart, calling in favors from friends and family across the industry to bring world-class talent to Milford on a first-festival budget. Central to her philosophy is ensuring that musicians feel genuinely celebrated. "When we give them the integrity and respect for what they do, they in turn give the audience the magic," she says.
Mayor Rich Smith echoed that enthusiasm: "I could not be more excited. It promises world-class music, a boost to local businesses, and a vibrant experience for our residents and visitors alike."
For local arts advocates like Phil Conine, owner of Stonebridge Restaurant, the festival represents something even larger. "I truly believe in music's ability to unite people, inspire creativity, and cultivate connections," he says. "Live music creates a shared experience that resonates profoundly within our community."
Sands is quick to credit MAC Executive Director Paige Miglio for dreaming bigger than anyone anticipated. "I thought our festival was going to be a couple of acts on a stage," she laughs. "She said, 'No — we're going to take over downtown.'"
Mark your calendars. Jazz'n Downtown is coming, and Milford is ready.