Jazz singer Ann Hampton Callaway, who will participate in the festival, says, "The Diet Coke Women in Jazz Festival puts a much needed spotlight on many of the formidable female artists who, regardless of their talents, still struggle to get equal time and respect in a male-dominated field. I remember in college being annoyed by such festivals as I thought they were patronizing. Now I understand the value of this tradition."

The festival lineup includes Ren_ Marie, Jane Bunnett & Spirits of Havana, the Marian McPartland Trio, European Jazz: Ann Ducros & Datevik Hovanesian, and the Eliane Elias Quartet with Marc Johnson. Information and tickets are available at www.jalc.org.