Davell Crawford
Robert Fahey
Bart Salzman, Founder and Artistic Director
Arizona’s most exciting, largest free jazz festival once again takes over downtown Chandler. Two days, 10 venues, 20 bands, 75 musicians and all FREE! Friday is Blues Night 5:00-10:00 p.m., and Saturday is Jazz 2:00-10:00 p.m., plus later at restaurants. Check out the full schedule with performer bios at www.chandleraz.gov/jazz.
The CJF has a history of showcasing the best local and national jazz groups on the main stage each year. Many styles of jazz will be presented; straight-ahead combos, be-bop, smooth jazz, Latin jazz, B3 Organ Jazz, R&B, Stride and more! The main stage will begin at 5:00 p.m. both nights in the new downtown library park on the east side of Arizona Avenue. Enter on Commonwealth. Parking maps are on the website.
Friday Night Headliner, 8:30 p.m.
Robert Fahey and Nice ‘n Nasty are bringing a mix of low-down blues and modern original music to the Fest’s Blues Night. Fahey is based in the Black Hills of South Dakota and was featured as one-third of the Chandler Center for the Arts “Tres Guitarras” show last summer showcasing his slide guitar style and received a standing ovation. He is now looking forward to debuting his incredible five-piece band in Arizona.
Saturday Night Headliner, 8:30 p.m.
The fest is proud to present Davell Crawford and his band. Crawford is considered the “Piano Prince of New Orleans,” as he is keeping the tradition of the New Orleans singing piano masters, such as Fats Domino, alive all over the world. With his full band, he will rock the park with his incredible swinging musicians. Crawford is a Steinway artist and will be performing on a seven-foot Steinway grand piano. He is a Basin Street Records recording artist and is also presently recording numerous tracks on Steinway’s new Spirio state of the art digital system that brings artists to owners’ homes. This will be a memorable performance!
April 1, 2:00-4:30 p.m.
Back again will be the ever-popular sidewalk bands scattered around the quaint Downtown Chandler shops. It is Chandler’s version of Bourbon Street in New Orleans, where music comes from every direction. This year will feature five talented jazz bands, from a smooth jazz saxophonist from Minneapolis to a swingin’ trumpet-led band from Tucson.
Naturally, plenty of food, beer, wine, arts and crafts are available starting at 4:00 p.m. in the park. Bring a lawn chair or blanket and be prepared for a great weekend! Thank you to all the generous sponsors, volunteers and staff for supporting this awesome event.