The Syracuse Jazz Fest will not take place for the first time since its launch in 1982. Frank Malfitano, founder and organizer of the festival, announced on Thursday that event only raised $250,000—short of its goal of $400,000.
The lack of funding for this year’s festival is mainly due to the loss of longtime sponsor M&T Bank. Sponsors like the bank are necessary to put on the Syracuse Jazz Fest, which has historically been free and open to the public.
The Syracuse Jazz Fest celebrated its 35th anniversary last year with sets from Todd Rundgren, Rebirth Brass Band, Ramsey Lewis, The Mavericks, Marc Broussard and Asleep At The Wheel. During its 35 year history, the event has featured performances from legendary acts like Aretha Franklin, Ray Charles, Dizzy Gillespie, Dave Brubeck, Boz Scaggs, Sonny Rollins, Wynton Marsalis, and many more.
The festival hopes to return in 2019.