Jazz fans can experience the local music scene as Syracuse Jazz Fest 39 kicks off in downtown Syracuse. 12 bands will perform throughout the city. Executive producer and founder Frank Malfitano says the evening of music is reminiscent of New York City’s jazz nightlife decades ago.
“You could go from club to club and see Charlie Parker, Miles Davis and Dizzy Gillespie… well, we don’t quite have that line-up but, we’ve got the best of what Syracuse has to offer," he said. "And it’s a fun night and there is a vibe and it’s cool and it feels like there’s a real scene.”
Other notable performances include Pastabilities Legacy Band featuring Joe Carello, Jimmy Johns and Rick Montalbano, Tom Brigandi with his trio at Mulrooney’s, and ESP at Maxwells of Hanover Square. Malfitano estimates you’ll be able to see at least a half dozen of the performances in one night such as the Bougie Brass Band.
“And that’s Melissa Gardner’s new project and Deyquan Bowens is playing in that band, Scott Rutledge, it’s going to be great. That’s over at the Song and Dance on Jefferson Street, kinda kiddie corner to the Landmark Theater.”
Other performers tonight include the Frank Grosso Quartet and U.A.D. Sow Band / Kings of the Fall at Salt City Market. This evening’s performances are at different times from 5 to 11 pm. Click here for the complete entertainment line-up.
You’ll also find JazzFest programs have are available at several downtown businesses . WAER is a promotional partner for the music festival that runs through Sunday.