Jazz in The Parks: The Blues Alley Youth Quartet, Herm Hopkins, Baba Ras D

The region’s most acclaimed jazz musicians are returning to the ever-popular Jazz in The Parks on the Great Lawn this summer! Bring your neighbors and friends for the city’s favorite laid-back summer evenings – listed by magazine as one of the area’s top five outdoor spots to listen to live music just last year! Bring your own picnic, blanket and refreshments, and enjoy popular local food vendors and giveaways, including some delicious Atlantic Barbeque! Stop by the wonderful restaurants around the Marketplace, just a block away up 12th Street. Pick up charcuterie (or a pizza!) at Whole Foods, or amazing chicken or noodles from JINYA Ramen Bar. Everything works well for takeout!

The events start at 5 pm with a children’s performer (get ready to dance!), followed at 6 pm by the headliners.

Dates:

• June 14: Jazz in The Parks & Blues Alley Present The Blues Alley Youth Quartet followed by Herm Hopkins Soul Quartet with opener Baba Ras D
• July 12: Jazz in The Parks presents and headliner Brandon Woody
• August 23: Jazz in The Parks and The Sonic Lifeline present the Fran Vielma Pan American Orchestra with opener Mr. Rob
• September 13: Jazz in The Parks presents Rochelle Rice with opener Mr. Rob

See below for more information on each artist!

Location: The Great Lawn is located at the center of the campus. Enter from 16th Street NW, or enter from Georgia Avenue at Butternut Street NW, and follow Main Drive around to the grassy area. 1301 Main Drive NW.

How to Get There: Parking is limited on campus, so walking, scooting, biking, buses, and trains are recommended. The Parks at Walter Reed is a 12-minute walk from the Takoma Metrorail Station on the Red Line, and more than a dozen bus lines run up 16th Street NW and Georgia Avenue NW. Bike parking is available on campus. Some parking is available in on-street spots; please follow the signage.

Free community events at The Parks at Walter Reed are made possible by our generous sponsors: Bozzuto Construction, Fidelity National Title Insurance Company DC, Oakridge Landscaping, Range Construction, Saul Ewing, Feldman Ruel, Wiles Mensch.

About the artists:

JUNE 14th, 2025

In partnership with Blues Alley Jazz Club, The Parks at Walter Reed presents the kick off for the summer jazz concerts on the Great Lawn, featuring opener Baba Ras D followed by the Blues Alley Youth Quartet and headliner Herm Hopkins Soul Quartet.

Baba Ras D is an early childhood educator, author, musician and Rock Star to kids of all ages!

Don’t miss his live music performance centered on positivity and community.

The Blues Alley Youth Quartet is the region's premier program for emerging youth jazz musicians. Blues Alley celebrates its 60 year anniversary this year and has the distinction of being the premier live jazz venue in Washington, D.C. as well as the oldest continuing jazz supper club in the United States. The Parks at Walter Reed is honored to partner with this prestigious venue.

Herm Hopkins

Soul Trombonist Herm Hopkins is a distinguished musician hailing from Washington, D.C., whose career has been marked by an unwavering dedication to the art of jazz and soul music. With over 15 years of experience performing and studying with renowned saxophonist Arnold Sterling, Herm has honed his craft to become a prominent figure in the music scene. His extensive background includes touring with celebrated musicians and participating in prestigious events, most notably his collaboration with Roy Hargrove during the 2013 Seoul Jazz Festival in Korea, which showcased his talent to an international audience.

Throughout his career, Herm has had the privilege of studying and working alongside some of the greatest names in contemporary jazz, including Lou Donaldson, Steve Novasel, Wycliffe Gordon, and Steve Turre. This exposure to a diverse array of musical styles and techniques has enriched his own artistry and allowed him to develop a unique sound that resonates with audiences. His commitment to the craft is further evidenced by his 12 years of service as a trombonist and arranger for The United States Army Band, where he not only performed but also contributed to the musical arrangements that captivated listeners.

In addition to his work with the Army Band, Herm has been a regular performer at the iconic Blues Alley, where he has showcased his talents with both his quartet and his Big Soul Band. This venue has served as an important platform for him to connect with fans and fellow musicians alike, solidifying his reputation as a skilled performer and charismatic bandleader. His performances are characterized by a rich blend of soulful melodies and intricate arrangements, reflecting his deep understanding of the genre and his ability to engage audiences on multiple levels.

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