Big Chief Donald Harrison Jr.’s Quantum Leap Festival: A New Orleans Music Experience in New York

Get ready to immerse yourself in the soul and rhythms of New Orleans as Big Chief Donald Harrison Jr.'s Quantum Leap Festival lands at the Borghese Vineyard in Long Island, New York. This exciting three-day event, running September 13-15 promises a cultural journey through music, food, and celebration, all curated by the NEA Jazz Master and multi-genre visionary, Donald Harrison Jr.

Photo byQuantum Leap Festival

Harrison, known as the “Father of Omniverse Music,” is celebrated for his revolutionary style that merges jazz, hip-hop, blues, and classical forms into a dynamic, genre-spanning experience. The Quantum Leap Festival will feature a dazzling array of New Orleans’ best musical talent, offering an intimate taste of the Crescent City’s diverse soundscape, set against the scenic backdrop of Long Island’s North Fork.

As the architect of Nouveau Swing, Harrison’s unique hybrid of jazz and modern genres has inspired legends like The Notorious B.I.G., Jon Batiste, and Esperanza Spaulding. His latest work, The Art of Passion, showcases his Omniverse Music concept, which blends different versions of the same song across various genres, including a groundbreaking trap-hip hop instrumental.

Festival Highlights

• Day 1 (Friday, September 13): Kicking off with a high-energy fusion of jazz, funk, soul, and hip-hop, this day sets the tone with danceable beats and New Orleans-inspired bounce.
• Day 2 (Saturday, September 14): A tribute to traditional and modern jazz, paired with soul influences. Enjoy the rich and dynamic jazz legacy of New Orleans.
• Day 3 (Sunday, September 15): A celebration of zydeco, cajun, and other folk sounds of the bayou, offering festival-goers an eclectic range of New Orleans' roots music.

Each day will feature performances from award-winning musicians, accompanied by delicious local food trucks, including Braun's Seafood Truck and Meat’s Meat BBQ, and refreshing beverages from Take Two Brews and Borghese Wines.

As the festival’s artistic director, Harrison has crafted this event to be an immersive celebration of music’s past, present, and future. In his own words in a press release:

"This festival will expose you to styles of music you may not have heard before, but you'll leave loving. From intimate jazz sets to soul-filled parties, it's all here. You can chill, dance, or simply enjoy the atmosphere in one of Long Island's most beautiful venues.”

The festival will take place at the Borghese Vineyard & Winery, providing the perfect setting to soak in the rich sounds and vibrant energy of New Orleans music.

This is your chance to experience the magic of New Orleans without leaving New York. Whether you're a jazz aficionado, a fan of genre-bending music, or just looking for a weekend of great vibes, the Quantum Leap Festival is an event you won't want to miss.