Review: An astounding cast of jazz talent packs the stage for crowning Jazz Day concert

Lizz Wright performs during the 15th Annual International Jazz Day at the Lyric Opera House, April 30, 2026. (Armando L. Sanchez/Chicago Tribune)

Members of Uniting Voices Chicago perform with Lizz Wright during the 15th Annual International Jazz Day at the Lyric Opera House, April 30, 2026. (Armando L. Sanchez/Chicago Tribune)

Jacob Collier performs during the 15th Annual International Jazz Day at the Lyric Opera House, April 30, 2026. (Armando L. Sanchez/Chicago Tribune)

Musicians perform during the 15th Annual International Jazz Day at the Lyric Opera House, April 30, 2026. (Armando L. Sanchez/Chicago Tribune)

Kurt Elling performs during the 15th Annual International Jazz Day at the Lyric Opera House, April 30, 2026. (Armando L. Sanchez/Chicago Tribune)

Jahari Stampley performs during the 15th Annual International Jazz Day at the Lyric Opera House, April 30, 2026. (Armando L. Sanchez/Chicago Tribune)

Dianne Reeves performs during the 15th Annual International Jazz Day at the Lyric Opera House, April 30, 2026. (Armando L. Sanchez/Chicago Tribune)

Bia Ferreira performs during the 15th Annual International Jazz Day at the Lyric Opera House, April 30, 2026. (Armando L. Sanchez/Chicago Tribune)

Dee Dee Bridgewater, left, and Gregory Porter perform during the 15th Annual International Jazz Day at the Lyric Opera House on April 30, 2026. (Armando L. Sanchez/Chicago Tribune)

Herbie Hancock performs during the 15th Annual International Jazz Day at the Lyric Opera House, April 30, 2026. (Armando L. Sanchez/Chicago Tribune)

Musicians gather on stage for the final performance of the night during the 15th Annual International Jazz Day at the Lyric Opera House, April 30, 2026, in Chicago. (Armando L. Sanchez/Chicago Tribune)