CNBNews

The festival offers a unique blend of old-school soul combined with a fresh, contemporary take on a music genre that is always cool, with countless dedicated fans worldwide.  Taking place to coincide with Philadelphia Jazz Appreciation Month, CCJF presents 20 acts at five venues, all within walking distance of one another in the heart of Center City.

The festival has sold out the past five years, so it is highly recommended that patrons purchase their tickets in advance at www.ccjazzfest.com.  An all-access pass is only $20 in advance ($25 day of the event) and allows admission to all events at the one-day event.

"As we have watched our festival grow, it's really gratifying to see how fans everywhere have embraced Philadelphia and our event as a genuine mecca for jazz lovers," said founder/artistic director, Ernest Stuart of the Center City Jazz Festival.  "I'm more excited than ever this year.  Our line-up is amazing, with some of the most best musicians from across the spectrum of jazz making this a go-to destination for music lovers this season."

Center City Jazz Festival

The inaugural Center City Jazz Festival took place in 2012 with music lovers turning out in large numbers for a celebration of outstanding music.  Featuring 17 musical acts from Philadelphia and New York, the festival set the tone for future events by providing easy access with four venues located within blocks of one another in the bustling downtown area.  Made possible through a visionary Kickstarter campaign, the first festival raised more than $17,000 from individuals passionate about the future of jazz and its role as a major cultural force in Philadelphia.  From that start, the festival has continued to grow, with more than 100 acts having performed before thousands of fans.  The event offers a true festival atmosphere, with spirited crowds enjoying the cool vibes and sheer joy of good music.  The Center City Jazz Festival has always presented an eclectic lineup, with past performers including BigYuki, Jeff Bradshaw, Diane Monroe, Tony Micelli, Dave Kikoski, Marcus Strickland, Ben Schachter, Steve Coleman and the 5 Elements, Orrin Evans, Sean Jones, Venissa Santi, Mike Boone, Denise King, Tim Warfield Jr., Justin Faulkner, Mary Halvorson, Janie Bunnett, The Huntertones, Surface to Air, Aerial Photograph and The West Philadelphia Orchestra.

Ernest Stuart

Ernest Stuart is the Founder/Artistic Director of the Center City Jazz Festival.  A native of Philadelphia, Stuart attended Temple University, where he developed his art as a versatile trombonist, proficient in countless genres of music, including jazz, salsa, R&B, neo-soul and hip-hop.  After receiving his degree in jazz performance from the school, he moved to New York City, where he kept busy as an in-demand musician, performing at notable clubs including, The Village Vanguard, The Iridium, Smoke and The Blue Note, among many others.  Never far from his roots, he recorded his debut CD, Solitary Walker, in Philadelphia, which was released in 2011.  He followed that up with the EPs, Love/Loss in 2014 and Same Walking Animals in 2015.  In addition to his work as a soloist, Stuart is a member of the Brooklyn bhangra band, Red Baraat.

Event at a Glance

Eighth Annual Center City Jazz Festival

Date and Time: Saturday, April 27 from 1:00pm – 7:00pm

Venues: Franky Bradley’s, Chris’ Jazz Café, Fergie’s Pub, Maison 208, TIME Restaurant

Tickets: $20 in advance and $25 day of festival

Tickets and more info at www.ccjazzfest.com

   published gloucestercitynews.net