AND BLUES SERIES by Dianya Markovits
Thousands of music enthusiasts travel from across the United States to experience the rich legacy of jazz and blues artistry on the historic grounds. In its first year, over 3,000 people attended the series. In 2023, attendance grew to 4,200 people. This year, over 6,200 people came from 41 states and Canada. The lineups have featured genre luminaries such as the Legendary Count Basie Orchestra, Mavis Staples, Gladys Knight, Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue, Gregory Porter and more, along with burgeoning stars Tank and the Bangas and Amythyst Kiah.
For the 3rd Annual Jazz and Blues Series this past February, the lineup featured outstanding performances by internationally renowned jazz and blues heavyweights.
The three-time Grammy award-winning lyrist Common opened the series on Thursday, February 8. Drawing inspiration from his surroundings, Common kept the audience on their feet as he reflected on history, humanity, empowerment and positivity. Friday, February 9, was electric with the infectious rhythms of the venerable New Orleans-based Preservation Hall Jazz Band. Trumpets blared and trombones wailed while the rhythm section kept a steady beat, driving the songs forward with infinite energy. Under the stars, the crowd danced, cheered and celebrated the timeless beauty of Crescent City jazz. On Saturday, February 10, the legendary Wynton Marsalis and his 13-member Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra
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