Shades of Blue Garden Party
On Saturday, September 21st, the National Jazz Museum in Harlem (NJMH) is bringing a touch of Harlem jazz to the picturesque Kensington Estate in Long Branch, NJ. The “Shades of Blue” Garden Party & Fundraiser is set to honor Miles Davis’ seminal Kind of Blue album, promising a delightful blend of music, gourmet food, and festive fun.
This elegant event will feature the NJMH House Band, led by the captivating jazz vocalist Tahira Clayton, alongside jazz legend Paul West and the Bethune Big Band. Attendees are encouraged to embrace the theme by donning their best blue attire and stylish hats, with awards for the best dressed and most creative headwear.
Lola Adesioye, an NJMH Trustee and event organizer, expressed her enthusiasm: “I’m so excited about bringing the ‘jazz in Harlem experience’ to Long Branch and presenting a selection of the Museum’s fantastic programming.”
All proceeds from the event will support NJMH’s educational initiatives and performances, helping to continue their mission of preserving and celebrating jazz. For tickets and more details, visit the National Jazz Museum in Harlem’s website.
The 13th Annual TD James Moody Jazz Festival
Running from November 7th through November 24th, the New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC) is set to host its 13th annual TD James Moody Jazz Festival. This year’s lineup spans a rich array of jazz and funk, featuring an impressive roster of artists and ensembles across multiple venues in Newark, NJ.
Highlights include:
- Paquito D’Rivera with the New Jersey Symphony (Nov 7, 8, & 10): The acclaimed Cuban-American clarinetist and saxophonist will perform a blend of classical and jazz compositions with the New Jersey Symphony.
- Tribute to Funk! (Nov 14): This highly anticipated event will showcase funk legends like George Clinton, Vernon Reid, and Nona Hendryx, with Music Director Ray Chew leading the charge.
- Tyshawn Sorey Trio & Sandbox Percussion (Nov 15): Celebrating the centennial of jazz pioneer Max Roach, this performance will feature Tyshawn Sorey and the East Coast premiere of a new work inspired by Roach’s ensemble.
- Madeleine Peyroux (Nov 16): The jazz vocalist will deliver an intimate performance of both classic standards and original works.
- John Pizzarelli & Catherine Russell: BILLIE & BLUE EYES (Nov 22): This duo will present a tribute to Billie Holiday and Frank Sinatra, offering a nostalgic dive into the Great American Songbook.
- Dorado Schmitt and Sons: Django Festival All-Stars (Nov 23): The Django Festival All-Stars will celebrate the legacy of Django Reinhardt with a dynamic display of gypsy jazz.
- 13th Annual Sarah Vaughan International Jazz Vocal Competition (Nov 24): The festival will close with this prestigious competition, spotlighting emerging jazz vocalists from around the globe.
NJPAC President and CEO John Schreiber, along with NJPAC Jazz Advisor Christian McBride, expressed excitement about the festival’s diverse lineup, which celebrates both established stars and emerging talent.
For tickets and more information about the festival, visit NJPAC’s official website.