Trumpeted
as the grand finale of May's 31 days of jazz, the 2011 Atlanta Jazz Festival amps up your
Memorial Day weekend with cool sounds and hot talent. From jazz and blues to
Rock 'n Roll and soul, you'll sing along to long-loved tunes and dance to new
favorites all day long!
34th Annual Atlanta Jazz Festival
May 28-30
Piedmont Park
Free Admission
This
weekend, head to Piedmont Park for the 34th
Annual Atlanta Jazz Festival. Enjoy three days of free concerts, as well
tons of food, crafts and souvenir vendors - plus an extra 35 acres of lush
lawns to lounge in! Up next, a spotlight on my can't-miss sets:
Audrey Shakir
The sultry strains from this bonafide jazz singer dig down deep, pulling the
audience on an unforgettable emotional roller coaster ride. Audrey Shakir's
diverse interpretations and influences produce bouncy tunes and breath-taking
ballads, guaranteed to give voice to those feelings that are sometimes just too
tough to express.
Warren Wolf Quintet
Ease into the evening with the visceral vibrations and smooth grooves of Warren
Wolf. His unique blend of drums, piano and vibraphone produces a sound so invigorating
that you simply can't sit still.
Regina Carter
Highlighting her velvety violin melodies, Regina Carter's innovative fusion of creative
contemporary instrumentation and ancient African folk tunes formed an
unprecedented melody. Mixing music from Africa, India and Puerto Rico, Carter
plays in global harmony, a truly "haunting and beautiful" sound.
Rialto Jazz for Kids All-Star Jazz
Band
This grooving group of middle school students is a truly talented bunch. Led by
the preeminent Rialto Center professor, Dr. Gordon Vernick, these kids help
bridge the gap between generation and genre, performing a swinging, soulful set
sure to leave your toes tapping.
Rua 6
This intriguing mix of Latin and Brazilian tribal tunes infused with buttery
baritone vocals and bright instrumentation create an explosive, energetic sound
guaranteed to heat up the night.
Things
to keep in mind: although Atlanta is one very pet-friendly city,
they won't be allowed onto the festival grounds. Still want your cultured critter
to hear some of the nation's top talent? The no-leash-required Piedmont Dog Park will
be open all weekend, with additional swim sessions and a renovated 3-acre run.
Small tents and gas grills are welcomed, just be sure to double-check the FAQs beforehand.
