Staff Reports | Digital Free Press
Organizers of the Molina Fine Jewelers Scottsdale Jazz, Blues & Brews Festival is reporting a record-breaking music festival held in Old Town Scottsdale last month.
The Molina Fine Jewelers Scottsdale Jazz, Blues & Brews Festival was hosted at the Civic Center of Scottsdale whereas an estimated 2,700 people attended the festivities, a one-day for the Scottsdale Jazz Fest, event organizers tell the Digital Free Press.
The Molina Fine Jewelers Scottsdale Jazz Festival Blues & Brews, which was presented by Mercedes-Benz of Scottsdale, was part of International Jazz Day, an event now recognized as a UNESCO Global event.
The event was originally founded by Doc Jones, a professional musician, educator, and recording artist for more than 40 years.
“I’ve been organizing the Scottsdale Jazz Fest for every year and there is no doubt we knocked it out of the park,” Mr. Jones said in a prepared statement.
“We owe a lot of gratitude to not only those who bought tickets and showed up to support us and honor International Jazz Day but also our great singers and the incredible performances of the artists who took to the stage to give one heck of a performance on Saturday night. Any event can improve itself and ours is no different but what a day and night it was.”
Headlining the festivities was Grammy award-winning contemporary Jazz/R&B artist Norman Brown, who joined other artists including internationally known New Orleans jazz saxophonist Donald Harrison; vocalist Nayo Jones; Carlos Rivas & Mexsal; Arizona-based jazz great Neaman Lyles, Kiara Jayne and Kings of Soul.
The world’s foremost jazz singer George Benson attended as a guest to enjoy some of the evening’s performances, even introducing Mr. Brown.
One of the standout moments was the performance by the great New Orleans-born saxophone player Donald Harrison.
“I believe Harrison’s performance was one of the highlights of the festival, providing attendees with a deeper appreciation and understanding of this uniquely American art form,” Mr. Jones said. “His ability to seamlessly blend the past and present was truly awe-inspiring. If you were unable to attend this year’s Scottsdale Jazz Festival, I strongly encourage you to make plans to be there next time. Experiences like Harrison’s are what make this event so special and truly unforgettable.”
