June 3, 2025

Michael Bublé’s trumpeter launches Nebraska’s hottest summer tradition

Color portrait of Jumaane Smith, holding a trumpet, next to a microphone.
Courtesy

Courtesy
The 2025 Jazz in June season kicks off June 3 with a performance by Jumaane Smith.

The 34th Jazz in June concert series opens today with a 7 p.m. performance by Jumaane Smith.

Perhaps best known as Michael Bublé’s trumpet player, Smith is an electrifying instrumentalist and vocalist. He has headlined Jazz at Lincoln Center, the Java Jazz Festival and the Blue Note New York and collaborated with such legends as Quincy Jones, Aretha Franklin and Barbra Streisand. With his unique blend of pop and soul, every performance he delivers is unforgettable.

"I Know," live in studio by Jumaane Smith.

Due to predicted inclement weather, the 7 p.m. concert has been moved into the Lied Center for Performing Arts. Normally, the free public concerts begin at 7 p.m. each Tuesday in June in the Sheldon Sculpture Garden, west of Sheldon Museum of Art.  A market offers food and drinks from 5 to 9 p.m. each Tuesday. The concert series is produced by the University of Nebraska–Lincoln, with support from the Lied Center for Performing Arts.

Each concert features two sets of music from 7 to 7:45 p.m. and 8 to 8:45 p.m., respectively, with a 15-minute intermission.

New this year is the Kids Zone, hosted by the Lincoln Children’s Museum, which will allow children to play and make new friends as they listen to the music.

Jazz in June, which is Nebraska’s longest-running free concert series, will feature some of the top jazz artists in the region and nation throughout the month. Upcoming 2025 Jazz in June concerts are:

  • June 10: Caity Gyorgy — This award-winning Canadian vocalist is making her Nebraska debut. Known for her silky vocals, playful swing style and fresh take on classic jazz, Gyorgy has performed across the United States, Canada, Mexico and Japan. With three JUNO Awards to her name, she brings the energy of old-school swing with a modern twist.
  • June 17: Pete Fucinaro — This Nebraska native is a former member of the seven-time Grammy-nominated One O’Clock Band. Blending traditional and innovative saxophone styles, Fucinaro demonstrates a fluid approach to music through soft, cinematic orchestration and improvisational flairs.
  • June 24: Sam Greenfield — This multi-instrumentalist has shared the stage with such superstars as Ed Sheeran, John Legend and Mariah Carey. Combining jazz, pop and funk, Greenfield captivates listeners with his irresistible melodies, vibrant energy and infectious personality.

While Jazz in June performances are free, attendees are encouraged to make a minimum donation of $10 per family to help ensure the future of the program. Alcohol and pets are not permitted.

Individuals or organizations who would like to make financial contributions and/or serve as volunteers or board members are encouraged to contact Jazz in June at jazzinjune@unl.edu.

Reserved seating is available via the Lied Center’s website for $80 for all four concerts or $25 per show.

Learn more about the concert series.