Kicking off June 12, the popular free series boasts a host of jazz favorites, including Mary Rademacher, Steve Talaga, Big Band Nouveau, Andrew Rathbun & more. Get the full schedule at Local Spins.
Jazz in the Park: Grand Rapids Jazz Orchestra returns to the series on Aug. 21. (Courtesy Photo/W. Mich. Jazz Society)
If any outdoor weeknight concert series says summer in West Michigan, it’s this one.
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The West Michigan Jazz Society’s 2023 “Jazz in the Park” series returns to Millennium Park on June 12, continuing a tradition that began more than two decades ago at John Ball Park on Grand Rapids’ West Side and later graced Ah-Nab-Awen Park downtown.
Featuring up-and-coming as well as established jazz musicians from across the state, the popular Monday series kicks off in Secchia Meadows in Millennium Park at 1400 Maynard Ave. SW with the West Ottawa High School Jazz Band and concludes 10 weeks later with the Grand Rapids Jazz Orchestra.
“There’s something for everyone this summer, and there is a balance of local favorites as well as some artists who are coming to Grand Rapids from elsewhere,” said Jordan VanHemert, a member of the jazz society board and director of jazz studies at Schwob School of Music at Columbus State University.
“There are musicians who represent various musical perspectives within the jazz tradition and I think that this summer’s lineup celebrates the depth and breadth of the music.”
Officially revealed on Wednesday evening at SpeakEZ Lounge prior to the Local Spins Wednesdays series performances starring jazz organ trio Organissimo, the 23rd edition of the Monday night concerts will showcase several well-known jazz artists, including singer Mary Rademacher, pianist Steve Talaga, Big Band Nouveau and saxophonist Andrew Rathbun.
Last year’s concerts drew an average of about 900 attendees, with organizers hoping to boost that number to 1,500 to 2,000.
The free concerts at Currie Amphitheater run from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., with donations accepted from attendees. Food vendors on hand include Coney Girl and Kool Breeze.
Monday Dance Party: Jazz at Millennium Park. (Courtesy Photo/W. Mich. Jazz Society)
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