Peter Smith Jazz Trio Performing at Boston's Fairmont Battery Wharf Hotel on September 1

Jazz vocalist Peter Smith and his Trio perform at the Fairmont Hotel at Battery Wharf's jazz bar  in downtown Boston on Saturday, September 1, 2012, from 9:00 p.m. to midnight.

Smith, a popular exponent of the American Song Book and the music of Frank Sinatra, Tony Bennett, Nat King Cole and Michael Buble, is joined by Yas Ishibashi on piano and Ralph Pepe on acoustic bass.

Find year round information on jazz in Massachusetts at MassJazz.com.

For visitor information, go to MassVacation.com and BostonUSA.com.

Boston Radio Host Eric Jackson Wins National Award for Jazz Expertise

Congratulations to jazz radio host Eric Jackson, winner of the 2012 Duke Dubois Humanitarian Award, who was honored for his longstanding commitment to jazz, jazz radio, jazz education and generous service to the jazz community.

Eric has received numerous awards for his work as one of the nation's leading curators and exponents of jazz.  In 2011 Eric was honored by JazzBoston for his outstanding work on WGBH 89.7 FM.

Find year round information on jazz in Massachusetts at MassJazz.com.

For visitor information, go to MassVacation.com and BostonUSA.com.

Top of Hub Restaurant in Boston has Live Jazz Seven Days a Week

Read about the grand tradition of live jazz seven days a week at the Top of the Hub Restaurant, published in the current issue of MassJazz Travel Guide, available for free at locations around Massachusetts.

Located on the 52nd floor of the Prudential Tower in Boston's Back Bay, Top of the Hub also boasts an amazing view of greater Boston with its Skywalk Observatory and terrific menus prepared by one of Boston's best culinary teams.

For more information on live jazz in Massachusetts, visit MassJazz.com.

To visit Massachusetts, check out MassVacation.com and BostonUSA.com.

Where to Hear Live Jazz in Massachusetts

Looking for live jazz in Massachusetts this weekend?  Here's a list of Massachusetts jazz clubs compiled by MassJazz, which promotes the state's jazz scene year round.

You can also find details on jazz brunches taking place at hotels, restaurants and cafes on weekends.

For visitors seeking tourism and travel information, go to MassVacation.com.

For up to date information on jazz any time of year, follow MassJazz on Twitter and Blog.

Jazz Guitar Ace John Pizzarelli Performs at Bull Run Restaurant on September 7

World-famous jazz guitarist John Pizzarelli and his quartet perform in concert at the Bull Run Restaurant in Shirley on Friday, September 7, 2012 at 8:00 p.m.  Tickets to the show are $45 and be be purchased online.

Pizzarelli has been hailed for "reinvigorating the American Songbook and re-popularizing jazz," wrote The Boston Globe.

Here is a schedule of upcoming concerts at Bull Run this fall.

You can find year round details on live jazz and blues in Massachusetts, including festivals, concerts, night clubs, radio programs and campus events, by visiting MassJazz.com.

Find visitor information at MassVacation.com and MerrimackValley.org

New England Conservatory Presents Contemporary Improvisation Concert on Tuesday, September 4

Dominique Eade

The Contemporary Improvisation Department at the New England Conservatory is celebrating its 40th year with a faculty all-star concert at 8:00 p.m. on Tuesday, September 4, 2012 at Brown Hall.  The concert is free and open to the public.

Among the performers: Ran Blake, Aaron Hartley, Anthony Coleman and Dominique Eade.

Here is a  full schedule of concerts at NEC this fall.

You can get year round details on live jazz in Massachusetts at MassJazz.com.

For visitor information, go to MassVacation.com and BostonUSA.com.

Jazz Duo Cyrille Aimee and Diego Figueiredo Perform at Scullers Jazz Club on September 5

French jazz vocalist Cyrille Aimee and Brazilian guitarist Diego Figueiredo perform at Scullers Jazz Club in Boston on Wednesday, September 5, 2012 at 8:00 p.m.  Tickets are $20 and can be purchased online or at the door.

Their music ranges from French gypsy and classic jazz standards to Bossa Nova and popular songs with a distinct sound that embodies their individual and combined talents.  Watch their videos here.

Find an upcoming schedule of jazz at Scullers.

You can get year round details on live jazz in Massachusetts at MassJazz.com.

For visitor information, go to MassVacation.com and BostonUSA.com.

Blues Legend Jeff Pitchell Playing at Boston Harbor Hotel Blues Barge Series on August 30

Texas blues guitarist and singer Jeff Pitchell is performing at the Blues Barge at the Boston Harbor Hotel at Rowes Wharf on Thursday, August 30, 2012 from 6:00 to 10:00 p.m.  It's the last concert of the summer season at Rowes Wharf overlooking Boston Harbor, and is free and open to the public.

For other summer series concerts through Labor Day, click here.

Find year round details on live jazz in Massachusetts at MassJazz.com.

For visitor information, go to MassVacation.com and BostonUSA.com.

Red Baraat performs at Boston's Museum of Fine Arts on August 29

Red Baraat, described by NPR as one of the world's best party bands, is performing at the Museum of Fine Arts in Boston on Wednesday, August 29, 2012 at 7:30 p.m.  Red Baraat in a nine-piece band led by Sunny Jean that plays an infectious blend of jazz, Latin, go-go and funk.

It's the last concert of the season in the Elaine and Jerome Rosenfeld Concerts in the Courtyard Series at the MFA each summer.

Find year round details on live jazz in Massachusetts at MassJazz.com.

For visitor information, go to MassVacation.com and BostonUSA.com.

Smooth Jazz at Summer Stock, Cape Cod Playhouse in Dennis, on August 29

The Bart Weisman Smooth Jazz Group, featuring Steve Hambleton (guitar), Rich Hill (bass) & Bart Weisman (drums) is performing the last of the season's Wednesday Night Jazz concerts at the Summer Stock Restaurant, located at the Cape Playhouse in Dennis, on August 29, 2012, starting at 7:00 p.m.  There is no cover charge.


The Summer Stock is located at 36 Hope Lane in Dennis.  For directions click here.

Find year round live jazz in Massachusetts at MassJazz.com.

For visitor information go to MassVacation.com and CapeCodChamber.org.

Salsa Star Willie Colon Performs Free Concert on Boston City Hall Plaza, Thursday, August 30

Nuyorican salsa star Willie Colon is bringing his exciting Latin Big Band sound to Boston City Hall Plaza on Thursday, August 30, 2012, from 6:00 to 9:00 p.m.

The concert is presented by the Mayor's Office of Arts, Tourism and Special Events, and is free to the public.

Born in the Bronx of Puerto Rican parents, Colon is considered a master trombonist, composer, bandleader and entertainer.  He has sold over 30 million records worldwide.

Find year round details on live jazz in Massachusetts at MassJazz.com.

For visitor information, go to MassVacation.com and BostonUSA.com.

Martha's Vineyard Jazz & Blues Summerfest Takes Place on Oak Bluffs on August 31-September 1

The annual Martha's Vineyard Jazz and Blues Summerfest is taking place on Friday, August 31 and Saturday, September 1, 2012 at the Union Chapel in Oak Bluffs on Martha's Vineyard.

Tickets are $20-$25 and can be purchased online.   The concerts take place at 7:00 p.m. each night, with doors opening at 6:00 p.m.  For directions click here.

Presented by Lewis & Kirk Music Productions, this year's performers include Andrea and James Rohlehr and The AndJam Band, Sage, Jay Hoggard, Mimi Jones and Luis Perdomo.

You can find year round details on live jazz in Massachusetts by visiting MassJazz.com.

For visitor information, go to MassVacation.com and Martha's Vineyard Chamber. 

Blues Guitar Legend Lucky Peterson Performs at Regattabar Jazz Club in Harvard Square on August 30

Blues guitarist and singer Lucky Peterson is performing in concert at the Regattabar Jazz Club in Harvard Square, Cambridge, on Thursday, August 30, 2012 at 7:30 p.m.  Tickets to the show are $20 and can be purchased online or at the door.

Peterson, who was discovered by another blues legend, Willie Dixon, is performing with vocalist Tamara
Peterson, bassist Timothy Waites, drummer Raul Valdes and guitarist Shawn Kellerman.

Located at the Charles Hotel at One Bennett Street in Harvard Square, Regattabar has a full schedule of great live music this fall. 

Find year round details on jazz in Massachusetts by visiting MassJazz.com.

For visitor information, go to MassVacation.com and BostonUSA.com.

Week Two of Boston Restaurant Week - ends August 31

Week Two of Boston Restaurant Week is underway at over 200 restaurants in the greater Boston area.

The event, which started on August 19, ends on Friday, August 31, 2012.

The popular dining feast is organized by Greater Boston Convention & Visitors Bureau and American Express. 

Pat Moscaritolo, head of the Bureau,  says it’s a chance for the city’s best chefs “to get creative and showcase seasonal New England ingredients, farm fresh herbs and produce, and local seafood all at a tremendous value to diners. It’s also the perfect time to enjoy the region’s outdoor cafes, patios and harborside dining.”

Numerous restaurants with live jazz are participating, here is a sampling:

• Boston's Downtown: Les Zygomates, Avenue One at Hyatt Regency Boston, BOND at Langham Hotel
• Boston's South End: Beehive Jazz Club and Petit Robert Birstro
• Boston's Back Bay: Skipjack's Restaurant and Top of the Hub Restaurant
• South Boston/Seaport District: Aura at Seaport Hotel, 606 Congress at Renaissance Hotel
• Cambridge: Upstairs on the Square
• Brookline: The Fireplace
• Belmont: Savinos

For more details on Restaurant Week Boston, visit the Greater Boston Convention & Visitors Bureau web site at http://www.bostonusa.com/
 
For more information on jazz in Massachusetts, visit http://www.massjazz.com

Jazz Trumpeter Brian Lynch Brings "Unsung Heroes Project" to Scullers Jazz Club on August 30

Grammy Award-winning trumpet player Brian Lynch is bringing his Unsung Heroes Project to Scullers Jazz Club in Boston on Thursday, August 30, 2012 at 8:00 p.m. and 10:00 p.m.  Tickets to the show are $30 and can be purchased online or at the door.

The Unsung Heroes Project features compositions by under-appreciated jazz musicians like Louis Smith, Tommy Turrentine, and Idrees Sulieman.

Here is a schedule of upcoming performances at Scullers Jazz Club in September. 

Find year round details on live jazz in Massachusetts by visiting MassJazz.com.

For information on visiting Massachusetts, go to MassVacation.com and BostonUSA.com.

Lance Houston Jazz Quartet Performs at Seaport Boston Hotel on Tuesday, August 21

Check out the Lance Houston Jazz Quartet performing at Tamo Bar & Terrace at Seaport Boston Hotel on Tuesday, August 21, 2012, starting at 6:00 p.m.  The band is led by flugelhorn player Lance Houston.  The performance is free and open to the public.

While there, check out Aura Restaurant at the hotel, one of Boston's favorite dining spots, a participant in this year's Boston Restaurant Week, which runs from August 19-24 and 26-31. 

Find year round live jazz and blues in Massachusetts by visiting MassJazz.com.

For visitor information, go to MassVacation.com and BostonUSA.com.

Pokey Lafarge and South City Three Perform in Rockport on August 21

Pokey Lafarge and the South City Three, exponents of early jazz, bluegrass and country swing, are performing at the Shalin Liu Performance Center in Rockport on Tuesday, August 21, 2012 at 8:00 p.m.

Tickets are $31-$52 and can be purchased online or at the venue.

Find Rockport Music's schedule of upcoming jazz, folk and world music through the summer and fall.

For year round details on jazz in Massachusetts, visit MassJazz.com.

For visitor information, go to MassVacation.com or NorthofBoston.org

Restaurant Week Boston Features over 200 Great Dining Spots

Boston’s semi-annual Restaurant Week is upon us, and there’s no better way to enjoy the city’s hospitality at its finest than by sitting down to a meal.

This year Restaurant Week in Boston runs from August 19-24 and 26-31, 2012.  Over 200 restaurants are participating, according to Patrick Moscaritolo, head of the Greater Boston Convention & Visitors Bureau, which organizes the event.

Moscaritolo says it’s a chance for the city’s best chefs “to get creative and showcase seasonal New England ingredients, farm fresh herbs and produce, and local seafood all at a tremendous value to diners. It’s also the perfect time to enjoy the region’s outdoor cafes, patios and harborside dining.”

Numerous restaurants with live jazz are participating, here is a sampling:

• Boston's Downtown: Les Zygomates, Avenue One at Hyatt Regency Boston, BOND at Langham Hotel
• Boston's South End: Beehive Jazz Club and Petit Robert Birstro
• Boston's Back Bay: Skipjack's Restaurant and Top of the Hub Restaurant
• South Boston/Seaport District: Aura at Seaport Hotel, 606 Congress at Renaissance Hotel
• Cambridge: Upstairs on the Square
• Brookline: The Fireplace
• Belmont: Savinos

For more details on Restaurant Week Boston, visit the Greater Boston Convention & Visitors Bureau web site at http://www.bostonusa.com/
 
For more information on jazz in Massachusetts, visit http://www.massjazz.com

Wanda Houston Performs at Castle Street Cafe on August 17

Chicago jazz singer Wanda Houston and her band perform at the Castle Street Cafe in Great Barrington on Friday, August 17, 2012 at 8:00 p.m.  There is no cover charge.

Houston is a seasoned jazz vocalist, actor and teacher who has performed around the country in jazz venues and on stage. 

Castle Street Cafe has been serving up great food and live jazz for 23 years.  Check out the jazz schedule at Castle Street Cafe, or follow it on facebook.

You can find year round jazz in Massachusetts by visiting MassJazz.com.

For visitor information go to MassVacation.com.

Salem Jazz & Soul Festival Takes Place on August 18-19

Joel Larue Smith

The 6th annual Salem Jazz & Soul Festival is taking place on Saturday, August 18 and Sunday, August 19, 2012 from 11:15 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. in downtown Salem.

The live, outdoor event, located at Salem Willows, 167 Fort Avenue, is free and open to the public.  For a printable schedule, click here.

Among the performers: Joel Larue Smith, Silvina Moreno,  the Dirty Dozen Brass Band, Salem High School Jazz Band, and North Shore Jazz Project All Stars. 

Here is a full schedule of jazz festivals in Massachusetts this summer and fall.

For year round details on live jazz throughout Massachusetts, visit MassJazz.com.

For visitor information go to MassVacation.com.

Jazz Drummer Roy Haynes Performs at Rockport Jazz Festival on August 17

Legendary jazz drummer and Boston native Roy Haynes is performing with his group, the Fountain of Youth Band, at the Shalin Liu Performance Center in Rockport on Friday, August 17, 2012 at 8:00 p.m..  The concert is the final event of the first annual Rockport Jazz Festival, which debuted this week.

Haynes, who grew up in Boston's Roxbury neighborhood, is considered one of the world's best jazz drummers.  In February 2011 he received a Lifetime Achievement Award at the 51st annual Grammy Awards.

Boston Herald jazz writer Bob Young noted, "Roxbury-born Roy Haynes has kept some pretty good company in his nearly seven decades in the music business. Charlie Parker, Miles Davis, John Coltrane and Pat Metheny have all shared the stage with the man known as the father of modern jazz drumming."

Here is a schedule of upcoming jazz events presented by Rockport Music this fall.

For year round details on jazz in Massachusetts, visit MassJazz.com.

For tourist information visit MassVacation.com and BostonUSA.com.

Waterfront Performing Arts Series - Free Dancing and Music at Boston's Christopher Columbus Park on August 14

The City of Boston's Waterfront Performing Arts Series is presenting free dance lessons plus a night of swing at Christopher Columbus Park in Boston's North End on Tuesday, August 14, 2012, starting at 6:00 p.m. and ending at 8:00 p.m.

Boston Swing Central, based in Charlestown, is providing free dance lessons for the first hour, then Phil McGowan and the Easy Winners Band brings everything to full swing with an hour of dancing.

The event is free and open to the pubic, and is part of the City of Boston's summer music series taking place all around the city.  For more information, visit the Mayor's Office of Arts, Tourism and Special Events.

For year round details on live jazz throughout Massachusetts, visit MassJazz.com.

For visitor information, go to MassVacation.com and BostonUSA.com.

Jazz Vocalist Tierney Sutton Performs in Rockport on August 15

The Tierney Sutton Band  is performing at the Shalin Liu Performance Center in Rockport on Wednesday, August 15, 2012 at 8:00 p.m. Tickets are $31-$52 and can be purchased online or at the venue.

The band features acclaimed jazz vocalist Tierney Sutton,  pianist Christian Jacob, bassist Trey Henry, and drummer Ray Brinke. 

The concert is the kick-off to the 1st annual Rockport Jazz Festival, which debuts this week with a great line-up of jazz performances from August 15-19.  

Rockport Music has an exciting schedule of jazz and other music this summer and fall.

Find year round details on live jazz in Massachusetts by visiting MassJazz.com.

For tourist information, go to MassVacation.com.

Provincetown Jazz Festival Runs August 11, 13 on Cape Cod

Sharon Clark 

The 8th annual Provincetown Jazz Festival on Cape Cod is taking place on Saturday, August 11 in Provincetown and Monday, August 13, 2012  in Cotuit this year.

Tickets to the event are $25 and can purchased online or at the door. Here is the full schedule.

Among the performers on Saturday, August 11, at Provincetown Town Hall, are jazz vocalist Sharon Clark, saxophonist Paul Carr, pianists Chris Grasso and Alex Brown, drummer Joe McCarthy and bassist Will Slater.

Performers on Monday, August 13, at the Cotuit Center for the Arts,  include Steve Ahearn on trumpet and flute, Bruce Abbott on sax and flute, Fred Boyle on piano, Ron Ormsby on bass, and Bart Weisman on drums.  Mr. Weisman is also the founder and producer of the Provincetown Jazz Festival.

You can find more details on jazz festivals in Massachusetts by visiting MassJazz.com/festivals.

For visitor information, go to MassVacation.com. 

Merrimack Jazz Fest: Saturday, August 11 Performers Playing Indoors at Tsongas Arena

News from Merrimack Valley Jazz Festival.

The main event on Saturday August 11th will still take place INSIDE the beautiful Tsongas Center at UMass Lowell.    DOORS open at 2 PM….. MUSIC STARTS at 4PM.   GREAT FOOD, GREAT BANDS, GREAT FUN and all that JAZZ.

Tonight’s weather forecast for the Kick-off event on Friday, August 10 is calling for heavy rain and thunder storms.    Keeping public safety at the forefront we have cancelled tonight’s event only.      There will be no performance at the Sampas Pavilion at the Vandenberg Esplanade.

We hope to see you tomorrow for  the 2^nd annual Merrimack Valley Jazz Festival Musical Event!.  Come cheer, chow, sip and swing inside the beautiful Tsongas Center!

For more details MerrimackValleyJazzFestival.

Merrimack Valley Jazz Festival in Lowell Slated for August 10-11

The 2nd annual Merrimack Valley Jazz Festival is taking place on Friday, August 10 and Saturday, August 11 in Lowell, Massachusetts.

The opening night festivities on Friday take place starting at 5:00 p.m. at the Sampas Pavilion on the Vanderberg Esplanade, and feature six jazz performances ranging from contemporary and classic jazz to Latin and funk.  This night is free and open to the public. 

On Saturday, August 11, the festival moves to the Riverwalk Park behind the Tsongas Center Arena in Lowell, from 4:00 to 10:00 p.m., with doors opening at 2:00 p.m.  In the event of rain the event moves inside the Tsongas.

Tickets to the Saturday festival are $17 if you order tickets online, or $20 the day of the festival at the gate. 

Among the performing artists at this year's Festival: Amanda Carr and the Le Creme de Les Femme, Gregg Hopkins Berklee All-Star Faculty Big Band, UMass/Lowell Faculty Jazz Ensemble, Henri Smith's Friends and Flavours New Orleans Band, Compaq Big Band and Adagio Big Band.

Special guests this year are the Adagio Dancers, a professional dance troupe from Mill City Dance in Lowell.

The festival is sponsored by the Greater Merrimack Valley Convention & Visitors Bureau, the Massachusetts Office of Travel & Tourism, the Lowell Sun, MassJazz and others.  Here is a full sponsorship list.

Find year round jazz in Massachusetts by visiting MassJazz.com.

For year round tourist information go to MassVacation.com 

Three Outdoor Jazz Festivals in Massachusetts This Week: Martha's Vineyard, Provincetown and Lowell

Christian Sands, Performing at Martha's Vineyard 

Massachusetts is earning its reputation as the State of Jazz this week, with three jazz festivals taking place, according to MassJazz, which promotes live jazz in the Bay State year round.

August 4-12

2nd annual
Martha’s Vineyard Jazz Festival

Oaks Bluffs, Martha's Vineyard
Performers for the week include Jason Moran, Terri Lyne Carrington and Nasheet Waits, Drew Davidsen, Elan Trotman, Gerald Veasley, Edmar Colon and Frederick Yonnet and Urban Harmonica.  Also: book readings and signings, film presentations and an art exhibit. 

 

August 10-11

2nd annual
Merrimack Valley Jazz Festival

Tsongas Center & River Walk
Lowell Heritage State Park
Lowell
Performers include Amanda Carr and the Le Creme de Les Femme, Gregg Hopkins All-Star Faculty Big Band, Berklee College, Henri Smith's Friends and Flavours New Orleans Band, Compaq Big Band and Adagio Big Band.

 

August 11 & 13

ProvincetownJazz Festival

Provincetown & Cotuit, Cape Cod
Performers include Sharon Clark, Paul Carr, Chris Grasso, Alex Brown, Joe McCarthy and Zach Brown in concert at Provincetown Town Hall on August 11.  Then on August 13, Bruce Abbott, Steve Ahern, Fred Boyle, Ron Ormsby, Tedi March, Debra Mann, Alan Clinger and Bart Weisman perform at the Cotuit Center for the Arts.

You can find a full schedule of jazz festivals from now through October in Massachusetts by visiting MassJazz.com/festivals.

You can pick up a free copy of MassJazz Travel Guide at these locations.

Here is tourist information about visiting MassVacation.com.

Bob Nieske Jazz Group at Top of the Hub Restaurant in Boston on August 4

The Bob Nieske Group, featuring jazz singer Maggie Galloway, is performing at the Top of the Hub Restaurant in Boston's Back Bay on Saturday, August 4, 2012, from 9:00 p.m. to 1:00 a.m.

Located on the 52nd floor of the Prudential Tower in Boston's Back Bay, Top of the Hub is one of the great Boston nightspots to enjoy great jazz nightly, plus terrific food and an amazing view of greater Boston. 

For a schedule of nighty jazz at Top of the Hub, click here.

Read a story about Top of the Hub in the current issue of MassJazz Travel Guide.

Find year round details on live jazz in Massachusetts by visiting MassJazz.com.

For visitor information go to MassVacation.com and BostonUSA.com. 

Combo Sabroso Performs at Tito Puente Series in Boston on August 2

Latin dance band Combo Sabroso is performing at Sheehy Park in Boston's Mission Hill on Thursday, August 2, 2012 at 7:00 p.m.

The concert, located at 1545 Tremont Street, is free and open to the public.  It  is part of  Tito Puente Latin Music Series organized  by Berklee College of Music in partnership with Inquilinos Boricuas en Accion and Socidead Latina.

MassJazz has compiled a schedule of free outdoor jazz concert series as well outdoor jazz festivals taking place throughout Massachusetts this summer and fall.

For details on visiting Massachusetts any time of year, go to MassVacation.com. 

Laurence Hobgood Quartet Performs at Regattabar in Harvard Square on August 2

The Laurence Hobgood Quartet is performing two shows at the Regattabar Jazz Club in Harvard Square, Cambridge, on Thursday, August 2, 2012 at  7:30 p.m. and 10:00 p.m.

Tickets are $20 and can be purchased online or at the door.

Both shows are hosted by jazz radio host Eric Jackson of WGBH.  The award-winning quartet includes Laurence Hobgood on piano, Matt Rybicki on bass, Jaret Schonig on drums, and Jimmy Greene on sax.

Here's a full schedule of upcoming performances at Regattabar, located at the Charles Hotel.

For year round details on jazz throughout Massachusetts, check out MassJazz.com

For visitor information, go to MassVacation.com and BostonUSA.com.

Jazz Trumpeter Chris Botti Performs at South Shore Music Circus in Cohasset on August 2

Grammy Award winning jazz trumpet start Chris Botti is performing at the South Shore Music Circus in Cohasset, Massachusetts on Thursday, August 2, 2012 at 8:00 p.m.

Tickets are $43 to $62 and can be purchased online or at the gate. 

Botti has sold over one million albums and has performed internationally with musicians like Sting, Andrea Bocelli, Herbie Hancock and others.

Botti is also performing in the area on August 10 at the Cape Cod Melody Tent.

For a complete schedule of concerts at the South Shore Music Circus, click here.

Find year round details on live jazz in Massachusetts by visiting MassJazz.com.

For visitor information go to MassVacation.com.

Jazz Pianist Jonathan Batiste Performs at Scullers Jazz Club on August 1

Jonathan Batiste, one of the most exciting innovators in jazz, is performing with his group, the Stay Human Band, at Scullers Jazz Club in Boston on Wednesday, August 1, 2012 at 8:00 p.m.

Tickets are $30 and can be purchased online or at the door.

Born in New Orleans, Batiste is co-director and musical curator of the National Jazz Museum in Harlem, and has performed in over 40 countries, collaborating with Wynton Marsalis, Prince, Jimmy Buffett and others. .

Here's a schedule of upcoming jazz performances at Scullers this summer.

For year round details on jazz in Massachusetts, visit MassJazz.com.

Find visitor information on Massachusetts at MassVacation.com and BostonUSA.com.

Jazz Duo Performs at Berklee's Summer in the City Series at Regattabar Courtyard, Harvard Square, on Monday, June 30

Upcoming jazz duo Lee Dynes and Amanda Addleman is performing a free concert at the Regattabar Courtyard at the Charles Hotel in Harvard Square, Cambridge, on Monday, July 30, 2012 at 6:00 p.m.

For directions click here.

The concert is one of dozens of free concerts in Berklee's 2012 Summer in the City Series, which features great young jazz musicians playing in venues all across greater Boston and beyond. 

For a schedule of upcoming performances at the Regattabar Jazz Club, click here.

MassJazz has compiled a list of free outdoor summer jazz concerts taking place across Massachusetts in July and August.

For full details on year round jazz in Massachusetts, visit MassJazz.com.

For visitor information go to MassVacation.com and BostonUSA.com.

Jazz Supporters Convene at Boston Public Library on July 31 to Discuss Future of Jazz

 

In the wake of jazz programming cutbacks at WGBH, 89.7 FM, JazzBoston is hosting a meeting at the Boston Public Library on Tuesday, July 31, 2012, from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m., to discuss the future of jazz.

Dr. Emmett Price, musician, Chair of African American Studies, and Associate Professor of Music and African American Studies at Northeastern University, will moderate the conversation with José Massó, longtime community activist and announcer/producer of ¡Con Salsa! on WBUR FM.  The event is free and open to the public.

The WGBH changes scaled back Eric Jackson's nightly show to weekend nights only, and eliminated the Friday night show, Jazz at Studio Four, by host Steve Schwartz. 

For more information about the jazz gathering at the Boston Public Library, visit JazzBoston.org or the Facebook page, Save Eric in the Evening.

Posted by MassJazz.com.

Preservation Hall Jazz Band Performing in Boston's Copley Square on July 27

The Preservation Hall Jazz Band is performing a free concert at the 1st annual Summer Arts Weekend in Copley Square Park in Boston's Back Bay.  The three-day festival is being organized by The Boston Globe and WGBH and a number of local businesses, arts groups and tourism agencies. 

One of New Orlean's most famous bands, the Preservation Hall Jazz Band was formed in 1961 and is considered an authentic proponent of the particular style of jazz that gave New Orleans its rightful designation as the home of jazz.

Preservation takes the stage at 7:45 p.m., and is joined onstage at 8:30 by Del McCoury, one of America's most accomplished bluegrass musicians.

Following that performance, New Orleans' own soul queen Irma Thomas takes the stage at 9:15

To find complete details of the Summer Arts Weekend, click here.

For year round jazz and blues in Massachusetts, visit MassJazz.com.

For visitor information, go to MassVacation.com and BostonUSA.com.

Funk Band Lettuce Performs at Berklee in Boston on July 23

Lettuce, the funk band, celebrates its 20th anniversary concert at the Berklee Performance Center on Monday, July 23, 2012 at 8:00 p.m. The band came together in 1992 when the musicians were students at Berklee.

Tickets are $26 and $31 and can be purchased online or at the door.

For a full schedule of upcoming concerts at the Berklee Performance Center, click here.

You can find year round jazz all across Massachusetts by visiting MassJazz.com.

For visitor information, go to MassVacation.com or BostonUSA.com. 

Sax Star Walter Beasley Headlines 2nd annual Onset Beach Jazz Festival on July 21

Jazz Saxophonist Walter Beasley is headlining the 2nd annual Onset Beach Jazz Festival taking place in Massachusetts on Saturday, July 21, 2012 from 1:00 to 7:00 p.m.

The festival is organized by jazz vocalist Mikelyn Roderick, who will also perform, along with The Kozue Kuriyama Jazz Quartet, Joaquin Santos Band featuring Evan Cole, Voices of the Future, and the Jazz Thugs.

The festival is free and open to the public, and donations are accepted to support Musical Instruments for Middle School Students.

For directions to the festival click here.

 You can find year round jazz in Massachusetts - including festivals, concerts, campus events and more - by visiting MassJazz.com

For information about visiting Massachusetts, go to MassVacation.com.

Tessa Souter is Performing at Marblehead Summer Jazz Series on July 21

Jazz vocalist Tessa Souter is performing in concert at the Marblehead Summer Jazz '12 series on Saturday, July 21, 2012 at 8:00 p.m.

The concert takes place at the Unitarian-Universal Church at 28 Mugford Street in Marblehead.  Tickets are $26-$35 and can be purchased online, or $30-$40 at the door.

Souter has been praised for her "crystalline contralto and impeccable phrasing" by Jazz Times.

To learn more about Marblehead Summer Jazz, click here.

Find year round details on live jazz in Massachusetts by visiting MassJazz.com.

For visitor information go to MassVacation.com or NorthofBoston.com.

Semenya McCord Performs at Vernissage's in Brookline on July 19

Jazz and gospel singer Semenya McCord is performing at Vernissage Restaurant in Brookline on Thursday, July 19, 2012 at 8:00 p.m.  Admission is $15.

The popular singer is also a noted educator who taught at UMass/Darthmouth for many years; she is currently teaching at Knox College and Carl Sandburg College in Illinois.

McCord is also on the faculty at the Lowell Summer Jazz Camp which runs from July 16-29, 2012. 

For year round information on jazz festivals, concerts, campus events, and other related activities in Massachusetts, visit MassJazz.com.

For visitor information, go to MassVacation.com and BostonUSA.com.

Arturo Sandoval, Latin Jazz Star, Performs in Rockport on July 20

Rockport Music is presenting legendary jazz trumpet player Arturo Sandoval in concert at the Shalin Liu Performance Center at 37 Main Street in Rockport on Friday July 20, 2012 at 8:00 p.m.

Tickets range from $45 to $78 and can be purchased online or at the Center's box office.

Born on the outskirts of Havana, Cuba, Sandoval is considered one of the great trumpet and flugelhorn players in the world.  He has won six Grammy Awards (12 nominations), six Billboard Awards and an Emmy Award.

Rockport Music has a great line-up of jazz, including its first annual Rockport Jazz Festival on August 15-19, 2012.  For a full schedule of jazz, folk, classical and world music at Rockport, click here.

For details on year round jazz festivals, concerts, campus events and jazz activities in Massachusetts, visit MassJazz.com.

For visitor information go to MassVacation.com.

Festival Betances, Celebrating Latino Culture, Takes Place in Boston on July 20-22

The annual Festival Betances, which celebrates Latino culture in Boston, takes place in at Plaza Betances, 100 W. Dedham Street, in Boston's South End on July 20-22, 2012. 

This year's theme is La Famila Villa Victoria.  Among the performers at the three day fest are Salsa singer Mel Martinez, doing a homage to Frankie Ruiz, and Salsa start Osvaldo Roman. 

The annual festival is organized by Inquilinos Boricuas en Accion, a community organization formed in 1968.

You can find a schedule of festivals - including jazz, blues and world music, by visiting MassJazz.com.

For tourist information, visit MassVacation.com and BostonUSA.com. 

Korean Jazz Pianist in Concert at Berklee Performance Center on July 18

Hey Rim Jeon, the noted jazz pianist, composer and educator from Korea, is giving a concert at the Berklee Performance Center in Boston on Wednesday, July 18, 2012 at 8:15 p.m.  Tickets are $12 at the door.

The concert is also being streamed online at Concert Windows.

Hey Rim Jeon is the first Korean faculty member at Berklee College of Music.

You can find year round details on live jazz in Massachusetts by visiting MassJazz.com.

For visitor information, go to MassVacation.com and BostonUSA.com. 

2012 MassJazz Travel Guide Available for Free at Visitor Centers in Massachusetts

A free copy of the 4th annual MassJazz Travel Guide is now available at visitor centers, concert venues, jazz clubs, and college campuses throughout the state. See distribution locations.

The 40 page Guide is a handy compendium of hundreds of jazz festivals, indoor and outdoor concerts, jazz summer courses and other jazz-related activities taking place in Massachusetts between July and November. 

This year's cover features Cuban trumpeter Arturo Sandoval, who is giving a concert at the Shalin Liu Performance Center in Rockport on Friday, July 20, then again at Scullers Jazz Club in Boston in November.

Among the highlights this year are new jazz festivals taking place around the Commonwealth: the Rockport Jazz Festival (August15-19); the Berkshire Getaway Jazz Weekend (September 14-16) in Lee, and the Holyoke Latin Jazz Festival (October 13).  And this year’s Berklee BeanTown Jazz Festival (September 29) is celebrating women in jazz with a line-up of great female performers.

Here is a full list of jazz  festivals in Massachusetts this summer and fall.

MassJazz was launched in 2009 by the Massachusetts Office of Travel & Tourism to promote the state’s jazz scene year round to the travel industry.

  

Other supporters of MassJazz include Berklee College of Music, University of Massachusetts at Amherst, Greater Boston Convention & Visitors Bureau, WGBH 89.7 FM, Cirque du Soleil, Rockport Music,  Downtown Boston BID, the Top of the Hub Restaurant, Scullers Jazz Club, Regattabar Jazz Club, Wilbur Theatre, Cape Cod Melody Tent, South Shore Music Circus, Palace Theatre, Northeastern University,  JazzBoston,  and other jazz groups across the state.

To find out more about live jazz in Massachusetts year round, visit MassJazz.com and Massjazz.blogspot.com.  You can also follow MassJazz on twitter. 

For information about visiting Massachusetts any time of the year, go to MassVacation.com.

 

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Free Boomtown Festival Taking Place in East Cambridge on July 16-19

The Boomtown Festival! 2012 is taking place at the Multicultural Arts Center of Cambridge on July 16-19, 2012 in the outdoor Cantanni Courtyard next to the Center.

The event is free and open to the public and features four days of art, live music and cultural activities.

Among the jazz bands performing are Fernando Brandão, the New World Jazz Composers Octet, Rhythmic Explorations and The Second Line Social Aid & Pleasure Society Brass Band.

To see a full schedule, click here.

You can find year round details on jazz, blues and world music by visiting MassJazz.com.

For visitor information go to MassVacation.com and BostonUSA.com.

Free Outdoor Summer Jazz Concerts in Boston and Across Massachusetts This Summer

MassJazz has compiled a list of dozens of free outdoor music concert series taking place across Massachusetts from now through Labor Day.

See the 2012 Summer Concert Series listings here.

The schedule includes annual concert series taking place in greater Boston and from Cape Cod to the North Shore.  Berklee College of Music has over a dozen series in various parks, plazas, shopping areas and even on Boston Harbor Island.

You can also find a schedule of outdoor jazz festivals taking place in the Bay State this summer and fall.

For year round details on jazz concerts, festivals, campus events, jazz organizations, radio programs and educational opportunities, visit MassJazz.com.

To find visitor information, go to Massvacation.com and BostonUSA.com.

Win Free Tix to Chris Botti Concert at South Shore Music Circus on August 2

MassJazz is giving away a free pair of tickets to hear jazz trumpeter Chris Botti in concert at the South Shore Music Circus on Thursday, August 2, 2012 at 8:00 p.m.

The lucky winner also gets a $100 gift certificate to dine at acclaimed Bia Bistro in Cohasset the night of the concert.

Click here to enter the contest and submit the form.  You can also reserve tickets to the concert directly through Ticketmaster.

Botti's 2004 album, When I Fall in Love, has made him world's most popular jazz artists. His newest album, released in 2012, is Impressions. He has won numerous Grammy Awards and other awards for his albums and concert performances.  In 2008 Botti recorded a live album at Boston Symphony Hall that became a best-selling CD and DVD. 

On Friday, August 10, Botti is performing at the Cape Cod Melody Tent in Hyannis.  To order tickets to that show, click here.

Find a full schedule South Shore Music Circus concerts this summer, and a full schedule at the Cape Cod Melody Tent. 

You can find year round jazz in Massachusetts by visiting MassJazz.com.

For information on visiting Massachusetts, go to MassVacation.com.

Goupo Fantasma and Debo Band Playing at Brighton Music Hall on Wednesday, July 11

Grammy Award winning Latin band Grupo Fantasma is performing live at the Brighton Music Hall in Boston on Wednesday, July 11, 2012.  They're joined by the Debo Band, an Ethopian pop band.

General admission is $15.00 and can be purchased online, or $18 the day of the show.

See a schedule of upcoming events at Brighton Hall.

For details on jazz festivals, concerts, campus events and other music activities in Massachusetts year round, visit MassJazz.com.

For visitor information to to MassVacation.com or BostonUSA.com.

Jazz Guitarist John Pizzarelli Performs at Rockport Music Series on Sunday, July 8

Rockport Music is presenting world-renowned jazz guitarist, singer, composer and bandleader John Pizzarelli in concert at the Shalin Liu Performance Center in Rockport on Sunday, July 8, 2012 at 5:00 p.m.

Tickets are $41, $51 and $61 and can be purchased online or at the Center on concert day.

The son of another legendary guitarist, Bucky Pizzarelli, John was hailed by The Boston Globe for "reinvigorating the Great American Songbook and re-popularizing jazz.”

Since 1981, Rockport Music has been committed to one enduring purpose: enriching lives through great music. To see a full schedule of concerts presented by Rockport Music this summer, click here.

For details on round jazz activities in Massachusetts by visiting MassJazz.com.

For visitor information go to MassVacation.com and NorthofBoston.org.