Q&A: Latrobe music festival JamBrewzle celebrates 10th anniversary

It’s hard for Derek Woods to believe that the JamBrewzle music festival he and his wife Sara started will mark its 10th anniversary Saturday.

“Over the years, it’s truly taken on a life of its own,” said Woods, a Greensburg resident and singer for the Derek Woods Band, which is currently touring the U.S. on a “Lucky 13” tour marking the band’s 13th anniversary. “As soon as one year wraps up, the wheels are already turning for the next.”

JamBrewzle will take place from noon to 11 p.m. at Four Season Brewing in Latrobe, featuring more than a half-dozen local bands along with special guest musicians, interactive music workshops, a drum circle at sunset and more.

Woods spoke with TribLive about a decade of bringing music, fun and positivity to festival attendees.

This interview has been edited for length.

Q: How did the idea for JamBrewzle first come about?

A: From day one, our mission has been to uplift the community through music, art and culture. Each year, we strive to curate a diverse, multi-genre lineup that’s unique and fun — while also supporting local, independent businesses and encouraging community involvement.

As the festival continues to grow, this space remains the perfect setting, thanks to the unwavering support of Four Seasons Brewing Company. Their partnership has been instrumental in helping us create a memorable and meaningful experience that the Westmoreland County community and beyond looks forward to year after year.

Q: What is the biggest challenge in organizing a local music festival, even just for one day?

A: We often start organizing certain elements as early as January. Throughout the year, I’m constantly scouting new talent. I’ve discovered incredible bands in all kinds of places — one memorable group I saw at the legendary Bitter End in Greenwich Village, and it instantly felt like they needed to come to the event in Latrobe.

I intentionally look beyond the mainstream, seeking out unique acts that will excite and surprise the audience — some familiar, and others they’ve never heard of but end up loving. Each year, we challenge ourselves to raise the bar and make the next JamBrewzle even more exciting than the last.

In the video below, former Pink Floyd saxophonist Scott Page sits in with Woods’ band at last year’s JamBrewzle.

Q: Are there other events in addition to the music?

A: Expect a captivating fire-dancing show by Flow N’at, and don’t miss the beloved sunset drum circle, open to anyone. People can bring their own drum or use one provided … throughout the day, there will be hands-on, all-ages interactive workshops like Chris Belin’s drum school, a harmonica workshop led by Darth D’Masta … plus fans of cinema will love a meet-and-greet tent featuring Gary Marlatt, one of the original zombies from the 1978 George Romero film “Dawn of the Dead.”

Add to that a wide selection of local vendors, food trucks and of course craft beer from Four Seasons.

Q: Last year you brought former Pink Floyd saxophonist Scott Page as a special guest — are there any special guests lined up for this year?

A: Having Scott Page fly in from Los Angeles to join Derek Woods Band last year was both an honor and an unforgettable experience. We always like to keep a few surprises up our sleeve for festival day, and this year is no different. We’re thrilled to announce that (percussionist) Jason Hann of The String Cheese Incident and (guitarist) Joe Marcinek, known for his work with George Porter Jr., Melvin Seals and more, will be joining Derek Woods Band as special guests, along with others for JamBrewzle 2025.

Q: As a local band that has toured nationally, how do you view the music scene in the greater Pittsburgh area?

A: I’ve been performing onstage for 25 years and have had the privilege of touring a lot, but there’s something truly special about the Pittsburgh music scene. It’s one-of-a-kind, filled with incredibly hardworking, passionate musicians who give it their all. While we’ve sadly lost many local venues in recent years, that only makes it more meaningful to be able to provide a stage and space for live music.

When I’m not performing myself, I stay deeply involved in the scene by working with various festivals, music venues and concert series. I also handle artist development and management for several bands and musicians with Into The Woods Management. No matter what role I’m in, I’m committed to doing everything I can to help our local music community grow and thrive.