The Founder ofSyracuse Jazz Fest is eagerly awaiting the final word on whether an extension of the State Fair can revive the musical event.
The festival has been dark for the last few years and Frank Malfitano says he knows people have missed it.
“It’s always been on our radar as a potential permanent home, but now the reality of this is starting to hit us. We think there’s real potential now, and this is the time that something might have to happen.” Malfitano said.
He thinks the Fair is the perfect venue for Jazz Fest for a variety of reasons, including existing infrastructure and multiple performance locations.
“So no one gets shut out at this site. It’s accessible to everyone, and that really appeals to me. Also, the other thing that appeals to us at Jazz Fest is that the fair is a populist event and Jazz Fest has always been a populist event.” Malfitano said.
Malfitano says he would be willing to work with the agency that books musical acts; He estimates two days of jazz would cost around $250,000, which he says is a bargain compared to other acts. He encourages people to support the idea through social media.
Fair Spokesperson Dave Bullard tells WAER that the Fair has the greatest respect for Malfitano and is considering the proposal. He goes on to say that any increased funds for an 18 day Fair would be dedicated to increased salary and operational costs.