CSUN Jazz Studies was already a national standard bearer—winning awards and training the next generation of artists – when The Soraya opened its doors as LA’s newest performing arts center in January 2011. This month, we celebrate the 5th year of Jazz at Naz, recognized as one of the best winter jazz festivals on West Coast. The festival has showcased major debuts for emerging artists such as two-time GRAMMY winner Samara Joy, created a home for jazz legends including John Pizzarelli, Branford Marsalis, Dianne Reeves and Chucho Valdés, and highlighted influential crossover artists such as Bobby and Taylor McFerrin, Diana Krall, Jon Batiste, Gregory Porter, Herb Alpert and Lani Hall.

Jazz at Naz’s 2026 edition features performances on The Soraya’s main stage as well as in its innovative Jazz Club – a unique and intimate setting for performances complete with food and drink table service – built on The Soraya’s main stage. Jazz Club appearances include fan favorite Arturo O’Farrill, returning February 5 with a small combo showcasing the versatility of his jazz chops, three-time GRAMMY winner Cecile McLorin Salvant bringing her unique voice and unmatched musicality for two nights, February 6 and 7, and one of the world’s best jazz clarinetists, Anat Cohen, with her vibrant quartet on February 11 and 12, performing a lively mix of originals, Brazilian classics and more.

On the mainstage, February 14 brings Love Inside Out with Veronica Swift and Pacific Jazz Orchestra for a night of torch songs, anthems, ballads, songs of new love and heartbreak alike – perfect fare for Valentine’s Day. Mardi Gras returns to The Soraya on February 18 with musicians that are living history: Preservation Hall Jazz Band. Steeped in the musical traditions of the French Quarter for more than 60 years, they are THE authentic New Orleans ensemble.  As the final event of Jazz at the Naz, one of America’s most decorated choreographers celebrates the music of jazz legend Alice Coltrane in Alonzo King LINES Ballet on February 21.

Jazz at the Naz events are selling quickly. If you aren’t able to catch these artists in person, the thoughtful folks at The Soraya offer a streaming pass to individual shows or the entire series, ensuring these special performances can still be experienced.  Since the inception of the festival, multi-camera live streaming provides access to audiences around the world, featuring behind-the-scenes content and backstage interviews with the artists, in addition to the complete concert.  

The jazz club is open through February 21, for more click here.