Every year, April represents a month of awareness and appreciation. It is Autism Awareness Month, National Poetry Month, Child Abuse Prevention Month, Public Radio Music Month, just to name a few. While in the midst of all the events and observances taking place during this busy time of year, be sure to embrace one annual celebration that is centered around slowing down and letting loose: the observance of Jazz Appreciation Month.
The Smithsonian Institution’s National Museum of American History has led an international initiative to recognize April as Jazz Appreciation Month in order to highlight the heritage of jazz music and culture. In August 2003, the United States Congress officially recognized the month-long celebration.
Jazz Appreciation Month is honored across the nation through events, exhibits, and most importantly, live music. There are many opportunities to celebrate Jazz Appreciation Month here in Syracuse. For one, Syracuse is home to the upcoming M&T Syracuse Jazz Fest, as well as the Northeast Jazz & Wine Festival. These summertime events are some of the most comprehensive and exciting jazz festivals in the nation. In the meantime, here are just some of the regional jazz performances taking place this month:
The Longwood Jazz Project
April 11, 2014 at 6:30 p.m.
Blue Moon Grill
"Stars of Tomorrow” Cabaret
April 13, 2014 at 7 p.m.
Jazz Central 441 E. Washington St.
$3 for students, $6 others
John Spillett Jazz Duo
April 18 and 23, 2014 at 7 p.m.
Bistro Elephant
Jazz@SITRUS: Featuring Grupo Lite
April 18, 2014 at 6 p.m.
Sheraton Syracuse University
Cabaret Series: The Return of Kate Davis
April 27, 2014 at 4 p.m.
Sheraton Syracuse University
$30