By now, we all know the many benefits of music on child development. Early language development, improved memory and self expressions — and improved mood and emotional regulation (parents of toddlers, that one is for you especially)! If you’re looking for a family-friendly event to not only get your kids excited about music, but in particular one of the most fun and expressive styles out there, steeped in American history — mark your calendars for Jazz4Kids in Seattle.
This live jazz concert is programmed just for young audiences, and brought to you by the Seattle Repertory Jazz Orchestra (SRJO).
- When: Saturday, March 1, 2025
- Where: Nordstrom Recital Hall at Benaroya Hall
- Concert Time: 4:00 – 5:00 p.m.
- Bonus Fun: An instrument petting zoo starts at 3:00 PM, thanks to Kennelly Keys!
Baritone saxophonist Alex Dugdale solos during Jazz4Kids. (Image: Jim Levitt)
What is Jazz4Kids?
If you’ve got little ones who love music (or you just want to introduce them to something new), Jazz4Kids is a great place to start. This isn’t your typical sit-and-listen concert — it’s interactive, engaging, and totally kid-friendly. Children will get to experience the joy of live jazz, meet professional musicians, and even try out real instruments before the show.
Why should you go?
Jazz is a cornerstone of American music history, known for its vibrant energy, rich storytelling, and unmatched creativity. At the concert, kids will get a chance to see how jazz works up close — how musicians improvise, how different instruments come together to create an amazing sound, and how music can tell a story.
This performance is extra special. The concert will feature music from SRJO’s main stage program “Ray Charles & Quincy Jones on Jackson Street”, celebrating two legendary artists and their deep ties to Seattle’s jazz scene. It’s a fantastic way for kids to hear incredible music and connect with the rich history behind it.
The Best Part? The Instrument Petting Zoo!
Did we get your attention? Before the concert starts, families can check out the instrument petting zoo — yes, it’s as cool as it sounds. Hosted by Kennelly Keys, kids touch, play, and experiment with different instruments in the orchestra pit before the show (starts at 3 p.m.). Whether it’s a trumpet, saxophone, or drums, this is the perfect way for little ones to discover what makes jazz so special — and maybe get them excited about what they might play in the future.
At the "Instrument Petting Zoo," children can try out many of the instruments they'll see and hear on stage. (Image: Jim Levitt)
It’s free … but tickets go fast
One of the best things about Jazz4Kids? It’s completely free to attend! There’s just a $1 ticket processing fee, and tickets must be reserved in advance.
- Tickets are limited, and Jazz4Kids Seattle concerts traditionally sell out, so be sure to get yours early!
- Families are asked to limit tickets to 10 per household. For larger groups, please contact boxoffice@srjo.org to arrange your ticket order.
Here’s that ticket link again to register. See you there!
