Now in its 13th year, this favorite of the local jazz community returns this month with some new offerings, including the launch of a jazz-focused magazine.

The second annual Washington Women in Jazz Festival kicks off on Wednesday, and is the brainchild of local pianist Amy K. Bormet. Here’s a preview of things to come.

It is an exciting time for fans of the District’s jazz scene. The last ten years have seen an explosion of young talent, and while the availability of venues for them to play is still an issue, there is no shortage of great players in the area. This up-and-coming pool of musicians share not only a dedication to craft, but also a strong sense of community and desire to spread the word about jazz in the nation’s capital. There is no better exemplar of this ethos than pianist Amy K. Bormet.