Few artists have done more to elevate smooth jazz over the past three decades than Dave Koz. As one of the genre’s most recognizable ambassadors, the Grammy-nominated saxophonist continues to prove that his passion for live performance is as strong as ever. Throughout 2026, Koz has steadily expanded his touring calendar with new concerts, international appearances, collaborative performances, and exclusive fan experiences.
Rather than relying on a traditional concert tour, Koz has built one of the most diverse live entertainment schedules in contemporary jazz. His growing calendar includes theater performances, jazz festivals, international engagements, luxury music cruises, special collaborative shows, and the beloved Dave Koz & Friends Christmas Tour. The result is a touring model that offers fans multiple ways to experience his music while keeping every performance fresh and unique.
For smooth jazz fans, 2026 is shaping up to be another memorable year filled with opportunities to see one of the genre’s biggest stars performing live.
A Touring Schedule That Keeps Growing
Dave Koz has never limited himself to one style of touring.
Instead, his calendar continues to evolve throughout the year as new opportunities arise. Recent additions include appearances with his Summer Horns ensemble, intimate theater performances, international concerts, and special collaborative shows featuring fellow smooth jazz legends.
Among the most notable additions to his schedule are performances with legendary pianist Bob James, supporting their acclaimed collaborative project Just Us. The partnership showcases two of contemporary jazz’s most respected musicians performing in an intimate setting that emphasizes musicianship, storytelling, and improvisation.
These concerts have received enthusiastic reviews from audiences who appreciate hearing familiar songs presented with fresh arrangements and spontaneous musical interaction.
Summer Horns Returns to the Stage
One of the biggest highlights of Dave Koz’s 2026 schedule is the continued expansion of the Summer Horns tour.
Originally inspired by the legendary horn sections of Earth, Wind & Fire, Chicago, Tower of Power, and Blood, Sweat & Tears, Summer Horns has become one of the most entertaining live shows in smooth jazz.
The current lineup includes:
- Dave Koz
- Marcus Anderson
- Jeff Bradshaw
- Leo P
- Evan Taylor
- Marcel Anderson
Together they deliver energetic performances that blend jazz, funk, soul, classic rock, and R&B into a show unlike anything else on today’s touring circuit. Their performances feature powerful horn arrangements, audience participation, and a celebration of classic horn-driven music that appeals to fans of all ages.
Festivals Remain a Major Focus
Jazz festivals continue to play an important role in Dave Koz’s touring schedule.
His 2026 appearances include performances at several prestigious festivals that attract thousands of music lovers every year.
Festival performances offer unique advantages.
Unlike traditional headline concerts, festivals allow audiences to experience multiple nationally recognized artists over the course of a weekend while introducing performers to new listeners who may be attending for other acts.
For Dave Koz, these events have become an important part of expanding the reach of smooth jazz while supporting the continued growth of live instrumental music.
International Performances Continue to Expand
Dave Koz’s popularity extends well beyond North America.
His 2026 calendar includes performances in the United Kingdom and other international destinations, reflecting the worldwide appeal of contemporary smooth jazz. His schedule also includes the Jewels of the Adriatic music experience, combining live performances with luxury travel through the Mediterranean.
These international appearances demonstrate that smooth jazz remains a truly global genre, with dedicated audiences across Europe, Asia, and beyond.
Unlike many touring artists who focus primarily on domestic markets, Koz has consistently built relationships with international audiences throughout his career.
Dave Koz & Friends at Sea Continues to Grow
Perhaps no event better represents Dave Koz’s innovative approach than Dave Koz & Friends at Sea.
Rather than simply attending a concert, fans spend several days traveling alongside world-class musicians while enjoying performances, artist Q&A sessions, exclusive activities, and unforgettable travel experiences.
The 2026 South America voyage features an impressive lineup of performers and visits destinations including Brazil, Uruguay, and Argentina aboard the Celebrity Equinox.
This concept has become one of the most successful music vacation experiences in the industry and continues to attract repeat guests year after year.
Collaboration Has Always Been Central to His Career
Throughout his career, Dave Koz has believed that collaboration creates some of the best musical moments.
His growing 2026 schedule reflects that philosophy.
Whether performing alongside Bob James, leading the Summer Horns ensemble, or sharing the stage with fellow artists during special events, Koz consistently creates opportunities for audiences to experience something different.
Over the years he has collaborated with artists including:
- Jonathan Butler
- Richard Marx
- Brian McKnight
- David Benoit
- Gerald Albright
- Rick Braun
- Brian Culbertson
- Cory Wong
Each partnership highlights a different side of his musical personality while expanding the reach of contemporary jazz.
The Long-Running Christmas Tour Returns
No discussion of Dave Koz’s touring calendar would be complete without mentioning one of smooth jazz’s most beloved annual traditions.
The Dave Koz & Friends Christmas Tour returns in 2026 for its 29th edition.
This year’s lineup includes:
- Jonathan Butler
- Haley Reinhart
- Dylan Chambers
- Erin Stevenson
The holiday tour combines classic Christmas favorites with contemporary arrangements, storytelling, and plenty of humor, making it a favorite among longtime fans and newcomers alike.
The Christmas Tour has become one of the longest-running and most successful holiday music tours in contemporary jazz, selling out theaters across North America every year.
More Than Just a Saxophonist
Dave Koz’s influence extends far beyond performing.
He has become one of the most visible advocates for smooth jazz through:
- National radio broadcasting
- Music education initiatives
- Television appearances
- Festival hosting
- Artist mentorship
- Charity events
His work has helped introduce countless listeners to contemporary jazz while providing opportunities for emerging musicians to reach new audiences.
This broader commitment to the genre has earned him respect not only as a performer but also as one of smooth jazz’s most important ambassadors.
Why Fans Continue Filling Concert Venues
Dave Koz has remained one of the genre’s top touring artists because he understands that audiences want more than great music.
His concerts combine:
- Outstanding musicianship
- Warm storytelling
- Humor
- Audience interaction
- World-class production
- Musical variety
Every performance feels personal.
Whether playing for several hundred people in an intimate theater or thousands at a major festival, Koz has a remarkable ability to make every audience feel connected to the music.
That connection has helped him maintain an extraordinarily loyal fan base throughout his career.
A Positive Sign for Smooth Jazz
Dave Koz’s expanding calendar also reflects encouraging news for the smooth jazz industry as a whole.
Across the country:
- More festivals are being announced.
- Performing arts centers are booking additional jazz artists.
- Music cruises continue attracting loyal audiences.
- International demand remains strong.
- Collaborative concerts are becoming increasingly popular.
These developments suggest that live contemporary jazz continues enjoying healthy growth despite changes throughout the broader music industry.
Artists like Dave Koz remain at the center of that momentum.
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