Hamptons JazzFest Kickoff: Bill O’Connell Latin Jazz Express featuring Randy Brecker

Hamptons JazzFest opens its 2026 season at the Parrish Art Museum with the Bill O’Connell Latin Jazz Express featuring Grammy-winning trumpeter Randy Brecker. This is a FREE event — no ticket required.

O’Connell, a longtime force in Latin jazz, is known for his work as a pianist, composer, and arranger, including his years with Mongo Santamaría and his own acclaimed large ensemble projects. His Latin Jazz Express brings together seasoned players focused on groove, precision, and ensemble interplay.

Joining him is Randy Brecker, one of the most recorded trumpeters in jazz, with a career spanning decades across jazz, fusion, and Latin music. A founding member of the Brecker Brothers and a multiple Grammy winner, Brecker brings a distinct sound shaped by collaborations with artists ranging from Horace Silver to Jaco Pastorius.

This kickoff performance centers on original compositions and modern Latin jazz repertoire, driven by rhythm section chemistry and sharp horn writing — a strong opening statement for the festival, grounded in musicianship.