HONK! Festival in Davis Square and Harvard Square runs from October 10-13, featuring dozens of free bands

Dozens of bands - from Boston to Brazil - are participating in the annual HONK! Festival in Cambridge and Somerville, starting Thursday, October 10 and running through Sunday, October 13, 2013.  The festival is free and open to the public.  Here is a schedule of performances.

Among the bands participating this year are the Dirty Water Brass Band from Somerville, the Bread & Puppet Circus Band from Vermont, the Minor Mishap Marching Band from Austin, TX, Perhaps Contraption Band from London, UK, Os Siderais from Rio de Janeiro, and the Young Fellaz Brass Band from New Orleans. Here is a list of the bands, or check out Honk! Facebook.

The festival culminates on Sunday, October 13, with a parade from noon to 2:00 p.m., starting in Davis Square in Somerville and ending in Harvard Square, Cambridge, where the bands will perform for the remainder of the afternoon as part of the Oktoberfest. 

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

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

 

Jazz Pianists Laszlo Gardony and Tim Ray in concert at Berklee Performance Center on Monday, October 7

Jazz pianist and composer Laszlo Gardony and Tim Ray, associate professor of piano at Berklee College of Music, are doing a concert at the Berklee Performance Center in Boston on Monday, October 7, 2013, at 8:15 p.m.

Ray is performing compositions from his work, On My Own, while Gardony is playing songs from his new album, Clarity.

Tickets are $12 the night of the show, and can be purchased online or at the venue.

For year round details on jazz concerts, clubs, campus events, radio stations and jazz groups throughout Massachusetts, visit MassJazz.com.

For tourism information visit MassVacation.com.

2013 Pittsfield CityJazz Festival Taking Place October 11-20 in Western Massachusetts

The 2013 Pittsfield CityJazz Festival is taking place on October 11-20, 2013 at various venues in Pittsfield, Massachusetts.  Many of the events are free and open to the public, while others are ticketed events.

Headlining this year's festival is the Brubeck Brothers Quartet, in a tribute to their legendary father, the late jazz pianist Dave Brubeck.  They'll be performing at the Colonial Theatre in Pittsfield on Saturday, October 19, 2013 at 8:00 p.m.   Tickets are $18 and $30.  Here is more information and ticketing details.

Other performers throughout the festival include Sherri Buxton, Geoff Vidal, Zoe Obadia, Dave Bartley, Andy Wrba, Bronte Roman and more.  Here is a list of performers and schedule.

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

For visitor information, go to MassVacation.com or the Berkshires Visitor Bureau.

JazzFest Falmouth features Tierney Sutton Band and other top jazz performers on October 4-5

This year's JazzFest Falmouth features a top line of up jazz performers, including the Tierney Sutton Band, which performs on Saturday, October 5, 2013at the Highfield Theatre in Falmouth, Cape Cod.

Tickets to the Tierney Sutton concert are $30 and can be purchased online or at the venue.

The festival kicks off on Friday, October 4, with a jazz stroll on Main Street, as well as performances by Stage Door Canteen Big Band at Liam Maguires, and blues singer Michelle Willson at Grumpys Pub.

Here is a complete line-up of jazz performers.

For year round jazz in Massachusetts visit MassJazz.com.

For visitor information go to MassVacation.com.

 

 

 



Jazz duo Vijay Iyer and Rudresh Mahanthappa Performing at UMass Amherst on September 26

Jazz pianist Vijay Iyer and saxophonist Rudresh Mahanthappa are performing at the Benansen Recital Hall at the University of Massachusetts at Amherst on Thursday, September 26, 2013 at 8:00 p.m.  Tickets are $10 general admission and $5 for college students, and can be purchased online or at the venue.

Iyer has just been named a 2013 MacArthur Foundation fellow, a prestigious award given to talented individuals who have shown creativity and accomplishment in their pursuits.

Here is a schedule of upcoming jazz concerts at the Fine Arts Center at UMass/Amherst.

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

For tourist information, go to MassVacation.com.

Berklee's BeanTown Jazz Festival Taking Place on Saturday, September 28

 Christian Scott

 

The 13th annual Berklee Beantown Jazz Festival is taking place on Saturday, September 28, 2013, from noon to 6:00 p.m.

Described as Boston's biggest block party, the outdoor festival is free and open to the public.  It is located on Columbus Avenue between Massachusetts Avenue and Burke Street in Boston's South End.  Here are directions.

This year's theme is "The Next Generation," and features a number of up-and-coming and acclaimed artists, including Grammy-nominated trumpeter Christian Scott; Mike Tucker Trio featuring vibraphonist Warren Wolf; and the Matt Savage Quartet featuring sax great Bobby Watson.

Here is a schedule of performances throughout the day.

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

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

Merrmimack Valley Jazz Festival taking place in Lowell on Saturday, September 21

The 3rd annual Merrimack Valley Jazz Festival is taking place from noon to 6:00 p.m. on Saturday, September 21, 2013 at Boarding House Park in downtown Lowell.  The event is free and open to the public.

Among the performers are the Amanda Carr Sextet, the Greg Hopkins Jazz Orchestra, the Adagio Big Band and others. Here is a full line-up of performers.

You can find tourist information, including local hotels, restaurants and attractions, by visiting Greater Merrimack Valley Convention & Visitors Bureau.  For tourism information across Massachusetts, visit MassVacation.com.

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

 

Johnny Mercer's music kicks off American Songbook Series at Arsenal Center for the Arts on September 21

A new season of the American Songbook: The Jazz View, kicks off with the songs of Johnny Mercer, taking place at the Arsenal Center for the Arts in Watertown on Saturday, September 21, 2013 at  7:30 p.m.

Tickets to the show are $24, general admission, and can be purchased online or at the venue.

The series is directed by two faculty members at the Berklee College of Music - composer/saxophonist Larry Monroe and vocalist Donna McElroy - and explores the intersection of the American Songbook with jazz, focusing on an individual songwriter for each concert.

Here is a schedule of upcoming concerts in the American Songbook series.

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

For visitor information go to MassVacation.com.


 

Kevin Harris Trio Performing at Scullers Jazz Club in Boston on September 17

Jazz pianist Kevin Harris is performing with his trio at Scullers Jazz Club in Boston on Tuesday, September 17, 2013 at 8:00 p.m.  Tickets to the show are $20 and can be purchased online or at the venue.   Joining Harris is Francisco Mela on drums and Peter Slavov on acoustic bass.

A graduate of the New England Conservatory, Harris is based in Boston and New  York.  He teaches piano at the Berklee College of Music.

Here is a schedule of upcoming jazz at Scullers, located at Doubletree Suites by Hilton Hotel, 400 Soldiers Field Road in Boston's Allston neighborhood.

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

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



 

Jazz singer Pat Braxton Performs at Amazing Things Arts Center in Framinghan on September 13

Boston jazz vocalist, composer and recording artist Pat Braxton is performing at the Amazing Things Arts Center in Framingham, Massachusetts on Friday, September 13, 2013 at 8:00 p.m.

Tickets to the concert are $18 general admission, $17 for students and seniors, $15 for members and $9 for children under twelve.  Order tickets online or call 508 405-2787.

With a vocal style reminiscent of Billie Holiday, Ms. Braxton has performed at Blues Alley in Washington DC, Scullers Jazz Club in Boston and other venues throughout New England.

 For directions to Amazing Things Arts Center, click here.

For year round details on jazz concerts, festivals, night clubs, and campus events, visit MassJazz.com.

For tourist information visit MassVacation.com.

3rd annual Northampton Jazz Festival Taking Place Saturday, September 7

The 3rd annual Northampton Jazz Festival is taking place on Saturday, September 7, 2013 from 11:00 a.m. to 7:p.m. on Hampton Avenue in downtown Northampton.  The event is free and open to the public.

Headlining the festival this year is venerable jazz drummer Al Foster, who played in the Miles Davis Quartet and worked with jazz legends like Sonny Rollins, Cannonball Adderly and Joe Henderson.

Other jazz artists at this year's festival includes Ben Allison, Hailey Niswanger, and the Green Street Trio, featuring Houston Person.  Here is the full schedule.

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

For visitor information go to MassVacation.com.

Japanese Jazz Artist Satoko Fujii at Lily Pad in Cambridge on Monday, September 2

(Photo by Stefan Postius)

Japanese jazz pianist and composer Satoko Fujii is performing at the Lily Pad in Inman Square, Cambridge, on Monday, September 2, 2013 at 7:00 p.m.  

Satoko is followed by Jerry Bergonzi Quartet at 8:30 and the Fringe at 10:30 p.m.

Here is a schedule of jazz at Lily Pad in September. 

Find year round jazz in Massachusetts at MassJazz.com.

For visitor information go to MassVacation.com.

Jazz Pianist Donal Fox Performs at Tanglewood on Saturday, August 31

Donal Fox is performing his composition, Scarlatti Jazz Suite Project, at the Seiji Ozawa Hall at Tanglewood on Saturday, August 31, 2013 at 1:00 p.m.  Tickets to the performance are $18-$53 and can be purchased at the concert venue.

Combining classical, jazz and Latin music, Fox's influences range from Igor Stravinsky and Bela Bartok to McCoy Tyner and Cecil Taylor.

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

For visitor information, go to MassVacation.com. 

James Montgomery Band Performing at Iron Horse Music Hall on Friday, August 30

Blues legend James Montgomery and his band perform live at the Iron Horse Music Hall in Northampton on Friday, August 30, 2013 at 7:00 p.m.  Tickets are $15 in advance (+ $5 fee) or $18 at the door.

A master blues harmonica player, Montgomery has shared the stage with blues legends like James Cotton, Greg Allman, John Lee Hooker and other acclaimed musicians of our time.

Here is a schedule of upcoming concerts at the Iron Horse Music Hall.

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

For visitor information, go to MassVacation.com.

 

Marty Ballou Trio Performing at Top of the Hub Restaurant in Boston's Back Bay on Monday, August 26

The Marty Ballou Trio is performing at the Top of the Hub Restaurant & Lounge on Monday, August 26, 2013, starting at 8:00 p.m. and running to midnight.

Ballou is a sought-after bassist who has performed around the world with Jay McShann, Jimmy Witherspoon and Herb Ellis and recorded with numerous artists in jazz, blues and pop.

Here is a schedule of upcoming jazz at Top of the Hub, which is located on the 52nd floor of the Prudential Towers in Boston's Back Bay.

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

For tourist information, visit MassVacation.com.
 

Jazz pianist Monty Alexander performs at Tanglewood on Sunday, August 25

Jamaican pianist Monty Alexander and his trio perform at Ozawa Hall at Tanglewood in Lenox, Massachusetts on Sunday, August 25, 2013 at 8:00 p.m.

Tickets to the show range from $20 to $99 and can be purchased online or at the venue.

Celebrating his 50th year as a jazz performer, Alexander has been at the forefront for half a century in exploring the music of America and of his native land.

Here is a schedule of other concerts at Tanglewood in August.

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

For visitor information go to MassVacation.com.

Live Jazz in Massachusetts - This Weekend, and All Year Round

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.

North River Blues Festival Taking Place in Marshfield on August 24-25

Mississippi Heat



The 18th annual North River Blues Festival is taking place at the Marshfield Fairgrounds in Marshfield, Massachusetts on Saturday, August 24 and Sunday, August 25, 2013.  General admission is $10.

Headlining this year's festival: Mississippi Heat, Royal Southern Brotherhood, Eden Brent, Sugar Ray and the Bluetones and Diane Blue.

For more information on the North River Blues Festival, call 781-834-2948.

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

For visitor information, go to MassVacation.com.


 

Jazz singer Kurt Elling Performs at Rockport Jazz Festival on Friday, August 16

Kurt Elling, one of the world's foremost jazz singers, is featured at the 2nd annual Rockport Jazz Festival at the Shalin Liu Performance Center in Rockport on Friday, August 16, 2013 at 8:00 p.m.

Tickets to the concert are $39-$58 and can be purchased at the venue.

A Chicago native and Grammy award winner, who now lives in New York, Elling has just released his newest album, 1619 Broadway - The Brill Building Project.

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

To learn about visiting Massachusetts, go to MassVacation.com.

 

Provincetown Jazz Festival Taking Place on Cape Cod, Saturday, August 17 and Monday, August 19

Guitarist Jay Geils

 

The 9th annual Provincetown Jazz Festival is taking place on Saturday, August 17 at the Provincetown Town Hall auditorium, and on Monday, August 19, 2013 at the Cotuit Center for the Arts in Cotuit, Cape Cod.  Tickets are $25 for each night and can be purchased online with service charges, or at the venues.

Headlining this year is the New Guitar Summit, featuring local guitar legend Jay Geils, Howard Alden, and Gerry Beaudoin, along with Bart Weisman on drums, Ron Ormby on bass and Gerry Beaudoin III on vibes.  They're performing Saturday night in Provincetown. The opening band features Berklee professor Jane Miller on guitar, David Clarke on bass and Cercie Miller on saxophone.

On Monday, the festival shifts to Cotuit, where the line-up includes jazz singer Donna Bryne, along pianist Tim Ray, bassist Marshall Wood and drummer Bart Weisman.  A jazz quartet opens the show, featuring Fred Fried on guitar,  Bruce Abbot on sax and flutes, Michael Lavoie on bass and Miki Matsuki on drums.

Here is a full schedule of events.

You can also find a schedule of upcoming jazz festivals in Massachusetts, and more details on year round jazz in Massachusetts at MassJazz.com.

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

 

7th annual Salem Jazz & Soul Festival is August 17-18

Salem High School Jazz Band

The 7th annual Salem Jazz & Soul Festival takes place this weekend, on Saturday, August 17, and Sunday, August 18, 2013 in Salem, Massachusetts.  The festival runs from 11:15 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. each day, and is free and open to the public.

The Festival raises funds to support year round music education in the Salem school system.  Read more about the Salem Jazz & Soul Fest.

Here is a full schedule of the performers on Saturday and Sunday.

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

For visitor information, go to MassVacation.com.



 

Jazz on Martha's Vineyard at Featherstone Center for the Arts on Sunday, August 18

An Evening of Jazz on the Vineyard is taking place on Sunday, August 18, 2013 at the Featherstone Center for the Arts in Oaks Bluff.  The event runs from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m.

Featured artists include the Love and Power Trio, with Orrin Evans on piano, Dezron Douglas on bass and Ralph Peterson, Jr. on drums.

Tickets are $65 and can be purchased online.  The price includes parking, hors d'oeuvres, wine and a signature cocktail. The event helps support Student Achievement Through Opportunity (SATO), a non-profit organization based in Hartford, CT. 

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

For visitor information go to MassVacation.com.
 

Italian Jazz Singer Roberta Gambarini Opens this year's Rockport Jazz Festival on Wednesday, August 14

Jazz vocalist Roberta Gambarini is kicking off this year's Rockport Jazz Festival on Wednesday, August 14, 2013 at the Shalin Liu Performance Center in Rockport, Massachusetts. The concert begins at 8:00 p.m.

Tickets to the concert are $31-$52 and can be purchased online.

The Boston Globe referred to Gambarini as "a true successor to Ella Fitzgerald, Sarah Vaughan,
and Carmen McRae.” 

Here is a full schedule of this year's Rockport Jazz Festival.

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

For visitor information go to MassVacation.com.
 

George Schuller Jazz Trio Perform at Castle Street Cafe on Saturday, August 10

The George Schuller Trio, featuring Helen Sung on piano, Joris Teepe on bass and George Schuller on drums, perform at the Castle Street Café in Great Barrington, MA on Saturday, August 10, 2013 at 8:00 p.m.  Admission is free.

Here's a schedule of upcoming jazz at Castle Street this month.

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

For visitor information go to MassVacation.com

 

Jazz Guitar Masters Eric Johnson and Mike Stern Perform at Regattabar in Harvard Square on August 9

Two masters on the electric guitar -  - Eric Johnson and Mike Stern -perform at Regattabar Jazz Club in Harvard Square, Cambridge on Friday, August 9, 2013 at 7:30 and 10:00 p.m. Tickets to the show are $30 and can be purchased online or at the venue.

Johnson has been named one of the 100 greatest guitarists of the 20th century by Musician Magazine, and Stern was named one of the top 75 jazz, blues and beyond guitarists by Downbeat Magazine.

Here is a schedule of upcoming shows at Regattabar.

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

Find visitor information at MassVacation.com.

MassVacation blog posting on MassJazz Travel Guide

Check out our blog posting today on MassVacation.com about the new MassJazz Travel Guide.

http://www.massvacation.com/blog/2013/08/massjazz-a-cultural-passport-to-the-world/

Pick up your free copy of MassJazz in jazz haunts and visitor centers across Massachusetts!

Finnish guitarist Jussi Reijonen Performs at Acton Jazz Club on Friday, August 9

Finnish jazz guitarist and oudist Jussi Reijonen is performing at the Acton Jazz Club in Acton, Massachusetts on Friday, August 9, 2013 at 9:00 p.m.  Tickets are $10 and can be purchased online or at the door.

Now based in Boston, Reijonen has released his first album, un, a stunning debut that combines his musical influences from Finland, the Middle East and Africa with his affiliation with Scandinavian and American jazz.

Here is a schedule of upcoming jazz events at Acton Jazz Club.

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

Find visitor information at MassVacation.com.
 

Steve Cole & Nick Colionne Perform at Scullers Jazz Club in Boston on August 8

Jazz saxophonist Steve Cole and guitarist  Nick Colionne are performing in concert at Scullers Jazz Club in Boston on Thursday, August 8, 2013 at 8:00 p.m.  

Tickets to the show are $25 and can be reserved online.  Dinner and the show are $65 per person and reservations can be made by calling 617 562-4111.

Cole recently released his seventh solo album and has had five number one Smooth Jazz hits in his career.  Colionne is a noted jazz guitarist and singer who combines jazz, blues, R&B and funk to create a distinct sound all his own.

Here is a schedule of upcoming concerts at Scullers Jazz Club.

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

For visitor information go to MassVacation.com.

Free 2013 MassJazz Guide now available at Tourism Centers in Massachusetts

The Massachusetts Office of Travel & Tourism has issued the 5th annual MassJazz, a 44 page booklet guide to jazz festivals, concerts, campus events and other jazz activities taking place in Massachusetts this summer and fall.

The MassJazz guide is free and available at these locations in Massachusetts.

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

To explore the arts and cultural scene in Massachusetts, visit MassVacation.com.

Blues Legend Buddy Guy Performs at Lowell Summer Music Series on Saturday, August 3

Blues master Buddy Guy is performing at the Lowell Summer Music Series in Lowell, Massachusetts on Saturday, August 3, 2013 at 7:30 p.m.

The concert takes place at Boarding House Park at 40 French Street in downtown Lowell.  Tickets to the concert are $44 in advance and $50 at the gate.  Tickets can be reserved online. 

The Louisiana-born musician is considered the pioneer of the Chicago rhythm and blues style which influenced a generation of musicians like Eric Clapton, Jimi Hendrix and Stevie Ray Vaughan.

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

To explore the arts and cultural scene in Massachusetts, visit MassVacation.com.  

Jazz Trumpeter Chris Botti Performing August 2 and 3 in Hyannis and Cohasset, Massachusetts

Chris Botti, one of world's best selling jazz artists, is performing two concerts in Massachusetts this weekend.  On Friday, August 2, Botti and his band play at the Cape Cod Melody Tent in Hyannis, Cape Cod, and on Saturday, August 3, at the South Shore Music Circus in Cohasset.

Both concerts begin at 8:00 p.m.  You can order tickets online through the Melody Tent or the Music Circus. 

Also, MassJazz is announcing the winner of free tickets and dinner to each show on Wednesday, July 31.  Here's how to enter the contest.

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

To explore the arts and cultural scene in Massachusetts, visit MassVacation.com. 

Jacob's Pillow - Jazz and Musical Theatre Program runs July 29 through August 18

The annual Jazz and Musical Theatre summer course at Jacob's Pillow Dance in Becket, Massachusetts opens today and runs through Sunday, August 18, 2013.  The course is led by Broadway choreographer Chet Walker and faculty includes directors, composers/arrangers, choreographers and musicians from Broadway.

The dancers present their work to the general public on August 3, 10, and 17, as part of Jacob's Pillow's free outdoor performing arts series.

Here is a schedule of dance concerts taking place through the summer at Jacob's Pillow Dance.

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

To explore the arts and cultural scene in Massachusetts, visit MassVacation.com. 

Berkshire Gateway Jazz Weekend Taking Place in Lee on July 25-29

Jazz guitarist Freddie Bryant



The 2nd annual Berkshire Gateway Jazz Weekend is taking place from Thursday, July 25 through Monday, July 29, 2013 in the town of Lee, Massachusetts.

Highlights of this year's festival are concerts at the First Congressional Church in Lee featuring Freddie Bryant & Kaleidoscope on Friday, July 26, and Phil Woods with the Greg Caputo Big Band on Saturday, July 27.  Here is ticket information. 

In addition, there are a series of other activities, including jazz outdoors, an art exhibit, and roving musicians in downtown Lee.  For details on related events, visit Berkshire Gateway Jazz Weekend.

These events are presented by Berkshires Jazz, Inc. and Berkshire Gateway Preservation, Inc.

Find more details on jazz in Massachusetts by visiting MassJazz.com

For information about visiting Massachusetts, visit MassVacation.com.

 

Preservation Hall Jazz Band Performs at Boston's Summer Arts Weekend in Copley Square on Friday, July 26

The world-famous Preservation Hall Jazz Band from New Orleans is performing at this year's Summer Arts Weekend festival at Copley Square in Boston's Back Bay.  The Band performs on Friday, July 26 at 9:20 p.m.

Friday night's schedule also includes Noe Socha, Della Mae, and Dr. John and the Nite Trippers.

The weekend series, free to the public, is presented by The Boston Globe and WGBH.

The series takes place on Saturday and Sunday.  For complete details visit Summer Arts Weekend. 

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

To explore the arts and cultural scene in Massachusetts, visit MassVacation.com. 

Outside the Box presents free concert with Women of the World at Boston City Hall Plaza on Sunday, July 21

Women of the World, an ensemble of outstanding musicians from Japan, India, Haiti, United States, Italy and Mexico, is performing a free concert on Boston City Hall Plaza on Sunday, July 21, 2013 at 3:00 p.m.  The group formed in 2008 when Berklee College of Music grad Ayumi Ueda sought to create an all-women's ensemble dedicated to world peace.  Women of the World performs in twenty-one languages.

The concert is part of Outside the Box, a new arts festival launched in Boston by philanthropist Ted Cultler, and is one of the final events of the nine day fest, which runs from July 13-21.

Today's Outside the Box schedule includes live music and culinary demonstrations on City Hall Plaza.  

Massachusetts is home to one of the most vibrant performing arts scenes in the world.  To explore the arts and cultural scene in Massachusetts, visit MassVacation.com. 

Outside the Box Presents Shye Ben Tzur & The Rajasthan Gypsies at Boston City Hall Plaza on Sunday, July 21

Shye Ben Tzur & The Rajasthan Gypsies are closing out the 9-day Outside the Box performing arts festival with a free concert at Boston City Hall Plaza on Sunday, July 21, 2013 at 4:00 p.m.

The band combines Jewish and Indian musical traditions, creating a unique brand of music that connects culture and religious pluralism.  The concert is presented by the Boston Jewish Musical Festival.

Today's Outside the Box activities on City Hall Plaza run from 11:00 a.m. to 5:10 p.m., and include live music and culinary demonstrations throughout the day. 

Outside the Box is the newest performing arts festival in Massachusetts, with over 200 free performances taking place on Boston Common and City Hall Plaza between July 13-21.  The performers include local, national and international acts in music and dance, theater and cabaret, comedy and children's shows and spectacle art.

To explore the arts and cultural scene in Massachusetts, visit MassVacation.com. 

Blues Legend James Montgomery Performs Free Concert on Boston City Hall Plaza at Outside the Box Festival on Friday, July 19

Local blues legend James Montgomery and his band perform a free concert on Boston's City Hall Plaza on Friday, July 19, 2013 at 1:00 p.m. The concert is part of the inaugural Outside the Box arts festival taking place in Boston from July 13-July 21. 

Montgomery, a renowned blues harmonica player, has performed with Bruce Springsteen, James Cotton, the Allman Brothers and other musicians throughout his forty-year career.  

Outside the Box is the newest performing arts festival to spawn in Massachusetts in recent years, with over 200 free performances taking place on Boston Common and City Hall Plaza.  The performers include local, national and international acts in music and dance, theater and cabaret, comedy and children's shows and spectacle art.

To explore the arts and cultural scene in Massachusetts, visit MassVacation.comhttp://www.massvacation.com/explore/arts/.

Pink Martini is Performing at Cape Cod Melody Tent in Hyannis on Saturday, June 29

Pink Martini, the international, cross-over ensemble influenced by classical, jazz and pop music, is performing in concert at the Cape Cod Melody Tent in Hyannis on Saturday, June 29, 2013 at 7:30 p.m.  Tickets to the show range from $31.75 to $57.75 and can be purchased online or at the venue.

You can also win a pair of tickets to see the show along with dinner.

Formed in 1994, the band has performed around the world over the past two decades.  Pink Martini is releasing its seventh studio album this fall, entitled Get Happy.

Here is a full schedule of concerts at the Cape Cod Melody Tent this summer.

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

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

Saxophonist Ravi Coltrane Performs at Scullers Jazz Club in Boston on Thursday, June 20

Legendary jazz saxophonist Ravi Coltrane is performing at Scullers Jazz Club in Boston on Thursday, June 20, 2013 at 8:00 and 10:00 p.m. Tickets to each show are $25 and can be purchased online or at the door.

Coltrane is promoting his new album, Spirit Fiction, on the Blue Note Label.

Here is a schedule of upcoming concerts at Scullers.

For year round jazz in Massachusetts, in concert halls, clubs, hotels, college campuses and outdoor festivals, visit MassJazz.com.

For visitor information go to MassVacation.com.

Jazz Guitarist John McLaughlin & the 4th Dimension Performing at Berklee in Boston on June 22

John McLaughlin & the Fourth Dimension are in concert at the Berklee Performance Center in Boston's Back Bay on Saturday, June 22, 2013 at 8:00 p.m.

Tickets to the show are $35 and $45 and can be purchased online or at the venue.  The concert is presented by Absolutely Live Entertainment and Scullers Jazz Club.

McLaughlin, founder of the seminal Mahavishnu Orchestra in 1971, has been an influential jazz guitarist over the past forty years, and continues to expand the music and its influence around the world.

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

For visitor information, go to MassVacation.com.

Jazz Festival Season in Massachusetts Kicks Off in New Bedford on Saturday, June 15

The 2013 jazz festival season in Massachusetts gets off to a good start this weekend with the second annual New Bedford Jazz Fest, taking place from 2:00 to 7:00 p.m. on Saturday, June 15, 2013 at Fisherman's Pier Three in downtown New Bedford. Among the featured performers are the  Marcus Monteiro Quartet, Southcoast Jazz Orchestra, and the Latin Jazz Vision Ensemble.  Here is a full line-up.

Throughout the summer and fall Massachusetts comes alive with over a dozen jazz festivals plus dozens of jazz concert series taking place.  You can find full details on jazz year round in Massachusetts by visiting MassJazz.com.   

For tourism information visit MassVacation.com.

Gypsy Jazz at the Burren in Davis Square, Somerville on Tuesdays

Jazz fiddler and mandolin player Jason Anick and his band The Swingers play gypsy jazz at the Burren Pub in Davis Square, Somerville on Tuesday nights throughout the summer from 8:30 to 11:30 p..m.

Anick is an instructor at the Berklee College of Music and is said to be the finest jazz violinist and mandolin player of his generation.

The Burren Pub has live music seven nights a week and is considered one of the best Irish pubs in the United States.  It has an eclectic line-up of music, including Irish, jazz, blues, rock and world music.

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

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

Cole Porter Week at French Cultural Centre in Boston Celebrates American Song Writer

The French Cultural Centre in Boston's Back Bay is celebrating American songwriter Cole Porter this week, in recognition of Porter's contribution to music and culture. Porter was deeply influenced by France and Paris in particular.

On Tuesday, June 11, 2013, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. the Centre is hosting a lecture by Desmond Colborne, a South African native who now lives in France.

On Saturday, June 15, 2013, the Centre hosts a special gala celebration, A Parisian Soirée with Cole Porter, from 7:00  to 10:00 p.m.. The evening includes dancing, drinks, hors d’oeuvres, a silent auction and live music featuring Cole Porter’s masterpieces by New England Conservatory musicians specializing in the works of Cole Porter.

To purchase your tickets to this special event, please contact reception at 617-912-0400 or info@frenchculturalcenter.org. RSVP required by June 12.

Find more information about jazz in Massachusetts by visiting MassJazz.com.

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


 

Rebecca Cline Jazz Trio at Top of the Hub in Boston's Back Bay on Sunday, June 9

 

The Rebecca Cline Trio is performing a jazz set at the Top of the Hub Restaurant in Boston's Back Bay on Sunday, June 9, 2013 from 8:00p.m. to Midnight.

Cline is an assistant professor of Ensemble at the Berklee College of Music.

 

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 2012 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.

Jazz Pianist Yoko Miwa & Trio Perform at Les Zygomates Wine Bar in Boston on Saturday, May 25

Yoko Miwa, jazz pianist from Japan, is performing with her trio at Les Zygomates Wine Bar at 129 South Street in Boston on Saturday, May 25, 2012, starting at  8:00 p.m..  The music is free but reservations are suggested.

Born in Kobe, Japan, Yoko studied classical and jazz piano, then won a scholarship to Berklee College of Music.  She has toured with numerous performers like Kevin Mahogany and played with Arturo Sandoval, Jon Faddis and many others.

Click here for a schedule of Ms. Miwa's spring performance schedule.

For details on jazz in Massachusetts throughout the year, including night clubs, concerts, campus events and more, visit MassJazz.com.

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

Jazz Drummer Roy Haynes Performs at Scullers Jazz Club in Boston on Friday, May 24

Jazz drummer Roy Haynes and the Fountain of Youth Band perform at Scullers Jazz Club in Boston on Friday, May 24, 2013 at 8:00 and 10:00 p.m. Tickets are $35 each and can be purchased online or at the door. 

A native of Roxbury in Boston, Haynes has been a professional drummer since 1945, and has played with the jazz pantheon, including Lester Young, Charlie Parker, Sarah Vaughan, Stan Getz, Chick Corea and others.

Here are some upcoming concerts at Scullers.

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

For visitor information go to MassVacation.com.

Singer Miranda Russell Live at Shalin Liu Performance Center in Rockport on May 24-25

Singer Miranda Russell is in concert with her five piece band at the Shalin Liu Performance Center in Rockport at 8:00 p.m. on Friday, May 24 and Saturday, May 25, 2013.

Tickets are $19, $29 and $39 and can be purchased online or at the venue.

Russell, a Massachusetts native, has performed extensively in the New England area, singing everything from Cole Porter to Joni Mitchell. 

Here is a schedule of upcoming concerts at the Shalin Liu Performance Center.

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

For vistior information go to MassVacation.com or BostonUSA.com.

Duke Ellington Tribute at the Beehive in Boston on Wednesday, May 22

Trumpet player, composer and arranger Greg Hopkins is leading a Duke Ellington tribute at the Beehive Jazz Club in Boston's South End on Wednesday, May 22, 2013. 

The music runs from 8:00 p.m. to midnight.  Dinner is served from 5:00 p.m. to 1:00 a.m.

Hopkins is professor of jazz composition at Berklee College of Music.

Here is a schedule of upcoming jazz at Beehive.

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

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

Jazz Guitarist Freddie Bryant and Kaleidoscope Performing at Regattabar Jazz Club in Harvard Square on May 21

Freddie Bryant, master jazz guitarist, is bringing his New York band, Kaleidoscope to perform at the Regattabar Jazz Club in Harvard Square, Cambridge on Tuesday, May 21, 2013 at 7:00 p.m.  Here is more information on the show.

Bryant is an associate professor of guitar at Berklee College of Music.  His band Kaleidoscope includes Paul Lieberman on saxes and flutes, Patrice Blanchard on Bass, and Willard Dyson on drums.

The Regattabar Jazz Club is located at the Charles Hotel at One Bennett Street in Harvard Square.  Here is a schedule of upcoming concerts at Regattabar.

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

For vistior information go to MassVacation.com or BostonUSA.com.