Sarah Hesshaus, Marketing & Communications Manager, EcoTarium, (508) 929-2738, shesshaus [at] ecotarium [dot] org
Brian Barlow, General Manager, WICN, (508) 752-0700, bbarlow [at] wicn [dot] org
WORCESTER, Mass. - If it's Friday, it's Jazz at Sunset! This summer, the EcoTarium and WICN Public Radio unveil a global tour of jazz in their six-show series of sizzling sounds in an extraordinary outdoor setting. The unique Jazz at Sunset outdoor concert series is one of Central Massachusetts' most popular summer events, thanks to its casual atmosphere, multigenerational appeal, and dynamic range of nationally acclaimed performers and local legends.
The 18th annual season of Jazz at Sunset offers an array of musical tastes and cultures, each with their roots in the jazz tradition. The series will kick off on June 13 with the Creole-inspired zydeco music of Nathan Williams and the Zydeco Cha Chas. Be sure to arrive early for an opportunity to discover exhibitors from attractions across the region in collaboration with the Central Massachusetts Convention and Visitors Bureau. Jazz at Sunset concerts run for six Friday evenings through July 25. (There will be no Jazz at Sunset concert on July 4.)
Concerts are held at the EcoTarium, 222 Harrington Way, Worcester, on Friday evenings, 6:30-8:30 p.m., rain or shine; in case of threatening weather, concerts are held in a tent pavilion. Gates open at 5 p.m.
Tickets
- $18 per person (includes museum admission), $15 for EcoTarium and WICN members. Free for children under 12. Bring your own chairs! Chairs are not provided.
- Advance Table Seating: reserve one table with seating for up to four people for $80 per table (includes concert and museum admission).
- Advance tickets are available by calling (508) 929-2703, or buy them online at www.ecotarium.org up to 4 p.m. the Thursday before the show. No refunds.
- Tickets are also available at the gate on the night of show.
2008 Jazz at Sunset Performer Schedule
June 13: Nathan and the Zydeco Cha Chas - Season Opener
Experience traditional Southern Louisiana Creole roots music without leaving New England through the accordion-driven dance music of these zydeco masters. Fast and furious musical beats with percussion, electric guitars, R & B influences and a definite Caribbean lilt are sure to keep those feet moving!
June 20: Houston Person
As eclectic as he is talented, global performer Person has recorded everything from disco and gospel to pop and R&B, in addition to his trademark, soulful hard bop. After years as producer and house tenor for High Note Records and touring with the late Etta Jones, Person is getting renewed recognition as a master of popular songs played in a relaxed, highly accessible style. Come enjoy a relaxing, swinging evening.
June 27: Kendrick Oliver and the New Life Jazz Orchestra
The Boston-based group of 19 young players and vocalists combines Basie-style swing and foot-stomping, head-bobbing arrangements with high-powered rhythms, an unrestrained brass section, elegant vocals and a talented assortment of spectacular soloists to produce its infectious sound and nothing less than a swinging, stomping experience!
July 11: Janiva Magness
Los Angeles-based Janiva Magness is one of today's most talented and recognized blues and roots vocalists. Singer Magazine writes, "Her voice is sultry, smoky and strong with jazz, blues, and soul textures enveloping it." With outstanding vocals, style and poise, Magness is best known for her sauciness and the bold, brazen beauty of her recordings and performances.
July 18: Worcester Jazz Orchestra
Hot jazz. Cool tunes. Sizzling performances. The Worcester Jazz Orchestra is celebrating over 12 years of critically-acclaimed Big Band music. This 18-piece orchestra highlights music from all your favorites, including Stan Kenton, Tommy Dorsey, Benny Goodman, Duke Ellington, Buddy Rich, Maynard Ferguson and others!
July 25: Lavay Smith and Her Red Hot Skillet Lickers
Sultry chanteuse Lavay Smith evokes a sensuous era of glamorous Jazz divas with her big, bluesy voice, exciting stage personality, and glamorous approach. Whether singing her own compositions or drawing on a large repertoire of classics, Lavay and her all-star 8-piece band, consisting of four horns, piano, bass and drums, bake up an instant recipe for good times.
Digital images are available. Please call (508) 929-2738 or email shesshaus [at] ecotarium [dot] org if you are interested in receiving performer images.
