Our Story
Since its founding in 1975, Kuumbwa Jazz has transformed from a small group of jazz enthusiasts into a vibrant nonprofit organization dedicated to celebrating jazz music. Located in Santa Cruz, California, the Kuumbwa Jazz Center opened its doors in 1977, providing a space for extraordinary regional, national, and international musicians to perform. The name 'Kuumbwa' means 'act of spontaneous creativity' in Swahili, reflecting the organization's mission to foster a community where everyone can experience the joy of music.