The DownBeat Blindfold Test is a listening test that challenges the featured artist to identify and discuss the music and musicians who perform on selected recordings. The artist is then asked to rate each tune using a 5-star system. No information is given to the artist prior to the test. 

The Monterey Jazz Festival has hosted live DownBeat Blindfold tests since 1996, and are moderated by Dan Ouellette. In 1997, for the 40th Annual Monterey Jazz Festival, bassist Charlie Haden was the blindfold artist.

Recorded in Dizzy's Den at the 40th Monterey Jazz Festival, at the Monterey County Fairgrounds in Monterey, California, September 21, 1997. Moderated by Dan Ouellette.

Photograph of Charlie Haden ©2002 Monterey Jazz Festival / Michael Piazza.

Charlie Haden: DownBeat Blindfold Test at MJF40 (1997)

The 68th Annual Monterey Jazz Festival will take place at the Monterey County Fairgrounds September 26-28, 2025.